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MYRRHA: A TRAGEDY 




MYRRHA 



M Y R R H A: 

A Tragedy In Five Acts 

BY 

CHARLES V. H. ROBERTS 

AUTHOR OF 
" The Great Conspiracy," " The Call of Sorrow," etc. 

ILLUSTRA.TED BY BLANCHE BRINK 




Boston 

The Four Seas Company 

1922 



Copyright, 1^22, by 

THE FOUR SEAS COMPANY 



All rights are expressly reserved. For rights of public per- 
formance, address the publishers, wh(j are the author's agents. 






The Four Seas Press 
Boston, Mass., U. S. A. 



•cm 61126 



TO MY SISTER 



MAR 30 1922 



MYRRHA: A TRAGEDY 



lo MYRRHA 

Britannicus 

To make you, sweet, my wife. 
Myrrha 

Nay, nay, my lord. 
Britannicus 

For some days past, I've thought of telling you: 

It can be and it shall. You smile? Why, dear? 
Myrrha 

Britannicus, just let us be good friends. 
Britannicus 

Is that your choice? 
Myrrha 

Yes, why should I deny? 
Britannicus 

Sweet love ! 
Myrrha 

Pray do not say such things to me! 
Britannicus 

What reason, what prevents my speaking out? 
Myrrha 

Alas, ah whither, whither shall I fly? 
Britannicus 

I give you love — you are too young to know. 
Myrrha 

Rome makes me fearful: I am all alone. 
Britannicus 

Though Rome is cruel, maidens can be kind; 

Oft love creeps into kindness like a prayer. 
Myrrha 

No, no, Britannicus, no! no! 



MYRRHA II 

Britannicus 

Dear girl — ! 
Myrrha 

Be kind and have me for your lasting friend. 
Britannicus 

So be it; till I teach you, dear, to love. 
Myrrha 

Say not so much — we've been here now too long. 
Britannicus 

I cannot say too much when so much love 

Makes loving thoughts to utter loving words. 
[Enter Xenophon] 

Ah! Why intrudes the Court physician here? 

To show strange tricks? 
Xenophon 

^ My age doth treble yours. 

Britannicus 

Stand you confessed of such senility? 
Xenophon 

I am content; fair fortune is our friend. 
Britannicus (impatiently) 

I ask what brings this sudden entrance, sir? 

What is the worst? 
Xenophon 

Your pardon, noble prince, — 

Your father had an illness slight. 
Britannicus 

That's strange. 

The slightest ills are those we'd best mistrust. 
Xenophon 

Not always, sir, 



12 MYRRHA 

Myrrha 

One knows not what may chance. 

Xenophon 

I came to give the Empress my report. 

Britannicus 

It was suspected and I do believe — 

Ah well, pray tell me what is your report. 

Xenophon 

Airs well, and Claudius is recovering. 

[To himself] 
Death never yet has dulled the subtle charm, — 
The witchcraft hid in this profession; 
My art is to postpone the funeral day 
Yet overlook the murder 'neath mine eyes. 
[Exit through the door to the adjoining apartment, 
closing it behind him.] 

Britannicus 

Deceit is vain : he cannot hide his thoughts, — 
I'm sure it's not the truth that doctor speaks; 
But I shall wait until my step- dame comes 
And learn the facts; that is if truth be had 
Amid the chaos of intrigues hatched here 
Upon the Palatine. 

Myrrha 

I pity you. 

Britannicus 

We cannot use too much precaution here; 
In truth I cannot Agrippina trust. 

Myrrha 

Let us not worry, only do our part. 



MYRRHA 13 

Britannicus 

Your part I have just asked of you. 
Myrrha 

Nay, nay, — 

Then falls all hope I built on friendship's base. 
Britannicus 

Fall too the plans I happily had framed, — 

that I'd find my death in glorious war. 
Myrrha (sadly) 

Yon know not, sure, the pains of war, dear lord, 

Which have reduced me to this slavery; 

To see the glory of a Hfe despoiled 

As mine of wealth and ease, sold, carried off, — 

[Dreamily] 
My home in Britain — I remember well 
— That morn the legions came and ruthlessly 
Did snatch me from my father's loving arms. 
The noblest he, and chief most loved of all 
Our noble tribe. I was his only child. 

1 was his pride, his strength, his company; 
How oft he Hfted me upon his knees. 
And tenderly he stroked my wavy hair. 
He loved me, O you could not understand ! 

My heart doth swell as it would burst and break. 
Who could suspect the deadly snare? My sire 
Was then imprisoned in the Mamertine, 
Qiained there midst vilest slaves in filth and gloom. 
And there he died — the nearest to my heart, 
The greatest of the great. Accursed Rome! 
Britannicus 

Beloved one! I knew not of this crime. 



14 MYRRHA 

Myrrha 

How base a doom for this most kingly man! 

A helpless captive reft of all he loved 

And lived for, in the very noon of life. 

O list! my father said before he died, 

**No hair of Myrrha's head shall e'er be harmed." 

Still now! I'm one of Agrippina's slaves. 

A slave to such as she — I had more hope. 

You speak of wedding me? You are the son 

Of Claudius, some day to rule as he 

In tyranny. Shall I a Roman wed? 
Britannicus 

For love's sake, hear me. 
Myrrha 

'Tis impossible! 

Howe'er it wound my feelings, sir, I still 

Would be your friend. I'm not of lowly rank. 
Britannicus 

You bring as many thoughts as night wears stars. 

If you would Rome redeem, but be her queen. 
Myrrha 

Though I am honored, sir, still we must part; 

The crown of Rome does not concern my heart. 

There's something. Oh, much higher in my 
thoughts. 
Britannicus 

What do you mean? What cryptic words are 
these ? 

Your voice in strangeness makes Love musical. 
Myrrha 

Be kinder pray. 




"You bring as many thoughts- as night wears stars. 
If you would Rome redeem, but be her queen." 

Act I. Scene 1. 



MYRRHA IS 

Britannicus 

What more than this? O sweet! 

Myrrha 

Would you attend a tale o'erheard by me 
From one of the Augusta's maids — 

Britannicus 

Tell it 
To me. 

Myrrha 

'Tis not of war, Britannicus, 
But something that's above all mortal things; 
Something the wise men ponder on. My lord, 
It was impossible to doubt her words. 

Britannicus 

Though I may doubt, still I would hear your tale. 

Myrrha 

From her sad voice and sympathy intense, 
She felt the story keenly she unrolled. 
'Twas of a Hebrew come from Nazareth, 
A Carpenter by trade. He was adored 
By many of the Jews and called by some 
Selected few their God. 

Britannicus 

Your talk is strange. 

Myrrha 

List! "This was twenty years ago," she said; 
"His name was Christus" — as she spoke His name, 
The tear drops glistening filled her beauteous eyes 
And flowed unchecked : her sighing soul appeared 
Consumed in love, in prayer of fervency 
And tender gratitude to Him; in Faith 



i6 MYRRHA 

Consistent and unwavering and sure 

As granite hills. Her face grew then as soft 

As meadows sleeping in the moonlit vales 

Or seas a-dream in night's omnipotence. 

She told me many wondrous legends grown 

Familiar in the hills of Palestine. 

There have been many men, but never such 

A Man; His smile was softer than the dew 

At dusk ; though keen His energy of thought 

Beneath a halo of sublimity, 

His voice was tender and compassionate. 

As breathing unto earth new sympathies. 

All life's long tragedy became a joy 

As boundless as the sky's unmeasured arch 

Before the mission of this precious Guest. 

Uncharted seas of Death and mystery 

His eyes scanned, like twin angel ministrants 

Exploring for some undiscovered woes 

Beyond the paralyzing darknesses. 

This Christ foretold the storms ere wind-dropt 

cloud 
Had dimmed the sapphire cup of heaven, or 

stopped 
Aurora's steeds in gallop o'er the hills 
And vales and domes of Samaria's land. 
The winds and sea both heeded His command; 
The sick were healed: and cripples walked erect. 

Britannicus 

From whom did He get such rare mastery? 

Myrrha 

Oh list ! Britannicus, she told me more : 



MYRRHA 17 

This Man could make the dead arise; those 

mourned 
As lost, return, and pay Him reverence 
From out the silence of their stony tombs. 

[Pause] 
Now there are some in Rome who say they've 

heard 
The Christus preaching of Eternity. 
Britannicus (musingly) 

Then Pontius Pilate in Judea ruled. 
Myrrha 

Now comes the tragic portion of this tale — 
The Jewish priests in jealousy assailed 
This Man (whose charms eclipsed all royal birth, 
Whose heavenly mission was to soothe and bless) 
Tfeey seized Him and condemned, for blasphemy. 
They scourged Him, mocked Him, giving Him a 

crown 
Of thorns, then crucified between two thieves. 

[Pause] 
Three hours He hung in pain, then died: 'twas 

writ 
That by his Death, redemption then was born. 
But when He died the sun withdrew its light. 
And tempests rang in wrath from out the clouds ; 
The dead arose and cerement-clad became 
As living things, made fleshly sounds and dropped 
Great drops of blood from blackening lips. These 

cursed 
With woes the people which had done this deed. 
That night the stars seemed to go mad in heaven, 



i8 MYRRHA 

The heathen gods before the Crucified 
Turned pale and swayed upon their pedestals 
While fear and quakings filled the shrieking air. 

[Pause] 
Friends took the mangled Body from the cross 
And laid Him in a tomb, then rolled a stone 
Before it. But still more, O wondrous more! 
She told me slowly, line by line, the tale 
Of Christus' love and great compassion, 
She, bathed in tears through her belief in all, 
I, listening, thrilled adown into my soul. 
Anon a smile stole o'er her tear-wet cheeks : 
"Behold!" she said, "upon the third day's dawn 
He rose as He had often prophesied 
To all of those who showed their faith in Him." 
O strange Return ! Celestial odors filled 
The air as bent the flowers before His tread 
Kissed by the robe that flowed about His feet. 
He moved in majesty divine of light, 
In calm repose across the vales redeemed 
And solaced in that Joy so long delayed. 
The multitudes then sang or laughed, some wept 
Before that tender, all inspiring smile 
In whose sweet light were sorrows lost, and pain 
Forgotten in the radiance of its peace; 
The holy brow showed neither age, nor marks 
Of earthly time. Each feature shone divine 
Beneath a circling ring of mystic light. 
The very winds blew harp-Uke chords from 

heaven 
Along the keys of Harmony sublime. 



MYRRHA 19 

Upon the trees there seemed no single bough 
Nor leaf but stirred and moved in reverence. 
So Nature bowed to her Divinity 
As verdure spreads an altar for the Rose. 
They loved Him now, who doubted ere the Cross. 
They sought His mercy, King of Glory now: 
"O Light of life, illumine now our souls 
And judge us not according to our sins." 
There stood the Balm, Whose healing streams of 

love 
Flowed gently in the many thousand wounds 
Of dire afflictions and of sinfulness. 
Whom call you God if He was not a God? — 
Britannicus! Was He not very God? 
Five little senses dare not challenge Him 
Nor all the legions Time and Rome amass. 
"Bless us and pardon, and be pitiful." 
So spoke the multitudes surrounding Him. 
Some few weeks later — 'twas a morning bright, 
The hour when forest choirs pour out their souls 
In melody, — He stood on Olivet 
And comfort spake he to His disciples true. 
And others who in wonder followed Him. 
Adoringly they sought His eyes ; He blessed 
Them with His hands uplifted, prayed, then gazed 
Aloft, while on the languid mountain slopes 
The air grew tense with awesome mystery. 
He spoke then to the wondering multitude: 

"Know ye, yon sun reflects my Father's love: 
And when a tempest cometh on the earth 



20 MYRRHA 

'Tis oft the tears of angels shed in grief — 
For human sins and cold ingratitude/^ 

A golden cloud descended from the sky, 

Enveloping the Christus standing there. 

This mystic haze about Him wove a veil 

Of brilliant hues, He now commenced to rise; 

He paused, He gazed on high, majestical. 

And all the Memories of God uprose 

Omnipotently pulsing in His soul. 

Ascending slowly unto Paradise 

He lifted hands in blessing. Man redeemed 

From sin and death, His task was done ; thus He 

Returned again to heaven whence He came. 
Britannicus 

What may this mean? 'Tis madness all and yet 

What beautiful, divine beneficence! 
Myrrha 

"Remember then," said Agrippina's maid, — 

"All nations yet will pay Him reverence.*' 
Britannicus 

I've seen these Christians living here in Rome, 

A lowly lot for such a narrative. 
Myrrha 

But dear, my lord, I know the tale is true. 
Britannicus 

Sincerely and perhaps as truly told. 

Your Druids would not like this Israel-God. 
Myrrha 

His life was love: His doctrine all divine: 

His death the very sacrifice of God ! 



MYRRHA 21 

No rock, no sepulchre could hold Him fast. 
He rose from death in such Divinity 
Of truth, of mercy and omnipotence, 
Before it Nature must admit herself 
A sage of faculty most limited. 

Britannicus 

What mystic teachings, or what influence 
Flow from this Christus, Myrrha, I know not; 
Ah will you judge me more unkind for that? 
Yet this I know, if Christus doth inspire 
Such purity as dwelleth in your soul, 
Your eyes, come, preach to me Eternity, 
Say: "Life is everlasting; Death is dead," 
Thou Rome, erect the grandest temple earth 
Hath ever known, for Him they crucified. 

Myrrha 

And so Rome will, my lord, Rome will, Rome will ! 
[Voices heard approaching] 
[Britannicus, rising, looks into the hall] 

Britannicus 

Hark, hark, I hear, see there the Empress coming. 
And by her limps Locusta, hateful witch — ! 
Surely that means some mischief is astir. 

Myrrha 

I hate your Empress, she is hard to all; 
Her heart is granite and her veins are ice. 

Britannicus 

Hush, hush! such words o'erheard might mean 

your death; 
The frailest thought expressed is dangerous. 



22 MYRRHA 

She builds mock thrones for her own son, — she 

dreams 
That he will be the next to rule in Rome; 
Imperial Caesar's title comes to me. 

Curtain 



SCENE II 

A few moments later. Place — Rome 

Scene 2 : 

In one of the magnificent private reception apart- 
ments of the Empress Agrippina in the Palace of 
the Caesars. 

The room is decorated with every resource of art. 
On the right especially prominent is the Empress* 
couch enriched with gilding and ivory. Adjacent 
to this is seen a large opening evidently leading 
to the inner apartments, in front of which hang 
handsome curtains. To the left is a doorway 
leading to the outer halls. 

The room is hightly illuminated. The lights glint 
on statues of gold and silver, on marble bas-relief 
and on the walls glowing with painted peacocks, 
winged genii and graceful arabesques. About are 
vases of perfumes, incense and spices, and other 



MYRRHA 23 

appointments all of the most costly, rich in har- 
mony of color and design. 

[Enter Agrippina and Locusta] 

Agrippina 

Well! what's the matter? speak! 
Locusta 

The deed is done. 
Agrippina 

You say to me "the deed is done" — fie, fie! 

I trifle not with you, your schemes scent blood 

Like those of hags infernal loosed from hell. 
Locusta 

But of necessity, for Fm a slave. 
Agrippina 

'Tis said she-devils walk on cloven feet; 

You are too insolent to value life. 
Locusta 

My art in poisoning called forth your smile; 

I was your handmaid most obedient. 

The Emp'ror's dead. With him at rest, you have 

Your wish more sure than by the law's decrees 

Which bandy logic on a waxen scroll. 
Agrippina 

For my soul's peace begone! 
Locusta 

The Emp'ror's dead. 

Now has my lady further need of me? 
Agrippina 

I'm filled with doubts, you have a scoffer's eyes. 



24 MYRRHA 

LOCUSTA 

Nay, rather thank mine art, which wisely though 
Unjustly struck the just. 
Agrippina 

Tis well, now go! 
And do not prowl about — get to your room. 

[Exit Locusta] 
Ah why should I be trembling at the whims 
Of this vile slave whose machinations have 
Released Rome of a Caesar's villainy? 
I'm not unlearned in the lore of schemes ; 
All now submits to my despotic sway. 
Yet this I've done for Rome. Germanicus, 
Thy daughter never yet has stooped to shame 
In banquet hall nor for carnality 
Inspired by Venus served in shames of lust; 
The gossip for such vices names not me. 
Law to ourselves is to be virtuous 
Still virtue needs to have her share of power ; 
So it is well that Claudius is dead. 
Locusta's fatal mushroom wrought good work 
Dripping foul poison from its velvet rims. 

[Sighing] 
I am most weary, but I must not sleep 
For then remorseful dreams oppress my heart 
And tune dull conscience into energy. 
Disturbed thoughts need not apologize 
For acts whose benefits are not matured. 
Now I will here cast off my crown as queen 
Remembering only now a mother's claims. 
How wonderful a thing is mother's love! 



MYRRHA 25 

That love would rather stoop in beggars' rags 
And kiss her children's feet than give her lips 
Unto a kneeling king. So Nature rules 
Despite the curse of our domestic ills 
With all the stratagems which they demand. 
Though crime here whispers from the dangling 

stars 
Their lights will soothe the front of my offense. 
Consume the past in all forgiving fire 
When my son Nero is crowned Emperor. 
[Enter Xenophon. He turns, pushes aside the 
curtains and points to the body of the poisoned 
Emperor who is discovered lying on a couch.] 

Xenophon 

He's had his due and passed. 

Agripmna {with agitation) 

What then? What now? 
His erring course is ended; Nero lives 
To grace the throne of Rome. 

Xenophon {aside to himself) 

She is content; 
More cruel marks of history are there; 
By woman's fury deeply scarred and oft. 
[Agrtppina moves through the entrance, stands and 
looks down coldly at her dead husband.] 

Agrippina 

Farewell my spouse, poor shuffled heap of dust! 
The grave-worm now will scrawl thine elegies. 
Canst thou provoke me more fond Claudius 
Since Death has drawn the blood from out thy 
cheeks ? 



26 MYRRHA 

No more warm kisses for thy frozen lips; 

Thou hast at banquet crammed thy last full meal, 

While in my bed thy viperous breath shall ne'er 

Again disturb the sweet delights of sleep. 

Should I be disrespectful to the dead? 
Xenophon (impatiently) 

What profit persecuting senseless clay? 
Agrippina 

Let us be on our guard. 
Xenophon 

Trust me, 111 not 

Betray ; the state now stands secure. 
Agrippina 

Ah, yes; 

Hence go in haste and the Praetorians tell. 
[Pointing towards the corpse^ 

But first, O master doctor, draw those veils. 

That thing, that nothing has a ghastly smile. 
Xenophon 

Fear not my queen — 
Agrippina {nervously) 

I did not say I feared ; 

But I'll not stand and argue right and wrong. 
Xenophon 

There'll be some discontent, some rumours wild 

Because here still survives the lawful heir. 
Agrippina {removing some of her jewels) 

Pour out these pearls and give them bars of gold. 

Go, use your judgment as to this event; 

Fear not for your reward; it shall suffice. 



MYRRHA 27 

Xenophon {aside to himself) 

A woman's promise is a cheap return. 

Agrippina 

If your profession would be long esteemed 
Place this beyond suspicion now, and blame. 
[Exit Xenophon through doorway leading to outer 
halls.] 

Oft Opportunity's a friend unseen 
In this long life of looking at the skies ; 
And so, as we meet Riches' great advance 
Likewise greet Opportunity; improve 
The fleeting moments when it visits us, 
The seasons then will fall in rare success 
Upon the year of our ambitious hopes. 
[Enter a Soothsayer] 
[Agrippina noticing his timidity] 
Why, why old man, why do you shrink from me? 
Throw wide the star- routes — time was made for 
use. 

Soothsayer 

Divine Augusta, wouldst thou have the truth? 

Agrippina 

Quick tell me all. 

Soothsayer 

But all takes several ways. 

Agrippina 

Are there uncommon portents in the skies? 

Soothsayer 

If thou hast erred, be glad if thou art blamed: 
Most sure shall Nero reign. 



28 MYRRHA 

Agrippina (smiling) 

Is erring there? 

Soothsayer 

I could not counterfeit; wouldst thou hear more? 

Agrippina 

What do you mean? — go on. 

Soothsayer 

Thy son shall reign 
But kill his mother. 

Agrippina (angrily) 

Liar! by the gods! 
If that's the scroll you read within your globe 
Of starry craft and feigning signs, I want 
No more of such deceitful augury. 
What witness have you for this cobwebbed lie? 

Soothsayer 

Man cannot change the course of stars, nor strip 
The skies of Fate-made garments spun in storm 
And death — 

Agrippina 

Out, ere I slay you, mouth of guile ! 
[Exit Soothsayer] 
[Agrippina rises and with her hands clasped behind 
her head walks hack and forth.] 
I had forbidden any Fate unknown 
To come into my presence — fie, fie, fie ! 
Why did I parley with that conjurer 
Who lets the stars grin down out of the clouds 
To fill the crystal of his prophet-orb 
With pictures of my son — a matricide? 
What gods may be I know not. Yet I know 



MYRRHA 29 

'Tis to his mother Nero owes his life, 

Hence I've no fear that he will injure her. 
[Enter Octavia and Britannicus] 
Britannicus (anxiously, then turning to enter the 
adjoining room) 

You sent for us? Is father still asleep? 
Agrippina {smiling) 

Do not disturb your father, he must rest, 
Britannicus 

The doctor said the Emperor was well — 
Agrippina 

It's true — he's out of pain. 
Octavia {aside to herself) 

O how I hate 

Her studied whim-whams and her treachery. 
[Addressing Agrippina] 

What care we for reports? I'll see my sire. 
Agrippina {standing betzveen them and the curtains) 

Have patience, both of you. 
Octavia 

Did heaven look on? 
Agrippina 

Be happy dear Octavia: he is well. 
Octavia {impatiently and with slight sarcasm) 

I thank you ; but since I am not your child, — 

Since kindly Nature holds that I am his, 

Have you this right to stand between us now? 
Agrippina {with growing annoyance and anger) 

Yes, I'm his wife, and Empress too, of Rome : 

Though all the daughter in your heart may rise 



30 MYRRHA 

To drown the wife, the Empress still commands. 

You shall not see my husband until morn. 
Britannicus 

I think we'd better wait, Octavia. 

Our love should not by any chance, through lack 

Of patience cause him to relapse. 
Octavia 

Still, I'm 

Not satisfied. I wish to see him now. 
Agrippina (pushing aside the curtains, but not per- 
mitting them to enter) 

Come, through the curtains — look, now see — he 
sleeps. 
Britannicus (gazing fixedly through the opening) 

But everything within seems still. 
Agrippina 

It's fit 

It should be so. Pray children, now withdraw. 

The Empire asks this boon of you. Goodnight. 
Octavia (to herself) 

She planned this scene which we now act — I know. 

I do not trust her. Why then do I go? 
Britannicus 

Before the morning dawns we will return. 
[Exeunt Britannicus and Octavia] 
Agrippina (with a long sigh of relief) 

Octavia seemed ready to suspect 

The worst. So I did wisely when I drew 

Aside those curtains. 'Twill be troublesome 

Enough to comfort them tomorrow mom, — 

Confronted then with their calamity. 



MYRRHA 31 

This tragedy is no concern of mine; 
Now Caesar's title to my son belongs, 
But Agrippina still shall rule the world. 
[Approaching sounds of laughter] 
[Enter Nero half-intoxicated] 
Nero 

O breathing world! I cannot see my own hand 
held thus before my face. Is this room filled 
with smoke or perfume? Holy gods! rejoice 
with me — sweet are the dews of night when 
Acte's kisses rain like dripping combs of honey. 
Ah, wine makes us — makes us happy — makes 
us kings. Emperors, Caesars. But who — who 
took me from Acte? 
Agrippina 

Come here to me. (to herself) A fit beginning 
of his reign. 
Nero 

Hell and damnation! Death to the fellow. 
Jealous! What's that? Why, pray what 
woman would have an eye for anyone but me, 
after she hears my latest verse? I keep 
company with none of the sex who do not 
appreciate poetry; and Acte's eyes flash fire 
when I recite. 
Agrippina (loudly) 

Nero — 
Nero (^looking up) 

Goddess of day, goddess of night, rejoice! (rec- 
ognizing his mother) Pardon me, mother, most 



32 MYRRHA 

praised, most loved mother, most ex-ex-excel- 
lent mother. 
Agrippina 

Have sense hereafter, sir, for due respect. 
Nero 

Thy praise doth wander through the eyes of stars. 
O Bacchus, mother, see the waking stars. 
Oh, my Falemian — 
Agrippina 

Silence, silence, son! 
You Nero, hardly know what precious gifts 
May rise to glad you from a mother's love. 
Nero 

Look you there, madam, who could in justice love 
and not love his mother best? I'm a frank 
person. I love to be envied, and the only love 
I envy is a mother's love. Who can match its 
faith and constancy? If you have a beautiful 
and loving mistress, she will only be beautiful 
and loving as long as you give her jewels, a 
table full of dainties and a play-house full of 
rogues. No, this is not a poet's imagination, 
but the flesh and blood of a poet who has had 
mistresses among the choicest Rome affords. 
Agrippina 

But not a wife, my son, remember that ! 
Nero 

Beautiful word "wife." Why put me on the rack 
at seventeen summers and nip each inch of man- 
hood out of me with the pin pricks of a creeping 
plague? Marriage may be discretion's law, but 



MYRRHA 33 

if there's an atom of right in connubial bliss, 
the cure is worse than the offense. 
Agrippina 

You never have been married, Nero. 
Nero 

No, mother, but you have. Therefore, I think I 

apprehend the mood. The smirks of Claudius 

have not been pleasing to your eyes. I am 

sobered now, what is it you want of me? 

[Sudden sounds of acclamation are heard from 

without the Palace; they grow louder and louder, 

distinguished by cries of "Nero" "Nero Caesar,'' 

"Nero Imperator." A few hut rather feeble and 

discordant cries are heard acclaiming for Britan- 

NICUS.] 

[Enter Burrus] 
Nero 

Burrus, thine eyes are like a Basilisk's : 
If it be needful, scruple not to speak. 
Burrus 

The Emp'ror's dead. Hail, Nero! Caesar, now. 
[Nero starts and appears to grow more sober.] 
Nero 

"Hail Caesar" — Burrus? "Caesar" sayest thou? 
I had not hoped so soon to wear the name. 
Burrus 

The tidings of his death have spread abroad. 
[Shouts from without] 
Nero {looking inquiringly and anxiously towards 
Agrippina) 



34 MYRRHA 

He hails me "Caesar," mother, what means this? 

'Tis no fit time to utter such a jest. 
Voices from without 

Apollo Nero! Nero Hercules! 
Agrippina {proudly) 

Hail Caesar! 
[The Empress moves, pulls aside the curtains and 

beckons Nero to enter the room. He crosses the 

threshold and is seen gating down at the body of 

Claudius. ] 
Nero {coming out of the room) 

I will look no more but learn. 
[Turning to Agrippina] 

Tell me of this and by whom was it done? 

For Caesar's deaths are seldom natural. 
Agrippina 

For strokes of Fate, I cannot answer, son. 
[Shouts from without of ''Nero, Imperator."] 
Nero 

A thousand thunders! hail me "Caesar?" No! — 

Give me instead red grapes and lovely maids, — 
Agrippina 

I do not understand, you must be mad. 
Nero 

Let bulls and rams rule Rome, not poets, now ! 
Agrippina 

You are not just to me ! 
Nero 

Treason has such 

A smooth brow, mother. 



MYRRHA 35 

Voices from without 

Nero Caesar! Hail! 
Nero 

Ah, that sounds wondrous well, but I'm no fool: 

The safest life is that which is unborn. 

If there's no spark of soul, there's none to kill; 

And wisest he who sits off thrones in Rome ; 

I'll not be meat for Brutus' knife to carve. 
Agrippin A 

You are a coward. 
Nero 

Women love to rule 

By tongue at least. 
Agrippina 

Thou ingrate, silence, sir! 
Nero 

Look there within ! what mock me too ? Nay, nay ! 

A wreath, or crown, a scrap of tinsel sun, 

The victor's robes, conspiracies, then death; 

A Caesar knows how best to foully die ; 

I'll not be Caesar — I refuse the crown 

And choose my time to immortality. 

BURRUS 

But Rome was never honored so before. 
I know thy modesty; but Caesar mark. 
The throne invites a god and not a king. 
Nero 

"A god and not a king," why, — that sounds well. 

BURRUS 

Aye, through thy great prerogative of verse 
Thou art by style and state immortalized; 



36 MYRRHA 

Hence Death's authority is overthrown 
Forever on this seven-mountained Rome. 
Nero {after long thought) 
They want me Emperor? 

BURRUS 

Nay, deity. 
Our fount of eloquence! 
Nero 

Then shall it be. 

BuRRUS 

Apollo, Nero, Imperator! — Hail! 

Agrippina {to herself eyeing her son rather suspi- 
ciously) 

A deity brings no conclusions here; 
Means he may use — or, if he choose, misuse. 

Nero {proudly) 

Though I was born to rival Homer, blind, 

ril operate for Rome's embellishment 

And progeny of nobleness; 'tis well! 

Now will my god-like genius change the world. 

Agrippina {aside to herself, looking sharply towards 
BuRRUS and Nero) 

Fair words may open many catalogues 
Of character, and for the time, at least, 
Make cowards walk with bravery's pedigree. 
I do not like this weakness in my son; 
This flattery will edge his appetite 
And so rob me of half my victory. 
[Enter Seneca] 

Seneca 

My greetings, Caesar! Greetings, royal youth! 



MYRRHA 37 

Behold how now the stress of ages calls 

For readjustment. 
Nero 

Seneca, although 

Old realms may terminate and new commence, 

My throne shall shine by your philosophy. 
Seneca 

'Tis easier to give advice than take. 
Nero 

The Caesar's power is counsel absolute. 
Seneca 

What one day gives another takes away. 

Thus power must with discretion tempered be. 
Agrippina (calling Seneca aside as Nero turns again 
to talk with BuRRUs) 

Why do you argue with him here? He seems 

To be too easily moved by flattery 

And will I fear get soon beyond control. 
Seneca (with slight expression of contempt) 

111 acts through ill must bring their own reward. 
Agrippina 

Most deeds I do, I do for Rome, my friend. 

And hence I feel tonight most woe-begone. 
Seneca 

Our miseries are endless, lady, if 

We stand in fear of possibilities. 
Agrippina (to herself) 

I do not sin, it's one within me sins 

Who leaves the body but remembering guilt. 
Seneca 

Since you have what you wished, Augusta, be 



38 MYRRHA 

satisfied. No one should fear, no one should 
shriek out in remorse who goes to himself for 
what he wants. Our minds are above fortune, 
but our deeds are our own; therefore, do not 
rail against Fate, do not be unjust to the gods. 
The fear of anything is slavery, the contempt 
of it is liberty. 
Agrippina (glancing into the room where the body of 
Claudius lies) 

Do you not fear death? What it is to die? 
Seneca 

Not at all, dear lady. Death is the certainty of 
visions gone, before which Life played mere 
jester. But why such thoughts in this hour of 
your triumph? Death is just as much a debt 
as money and no man should fear to pay his 
debts; furthermore, to suffer death is the law 
of Nature, and it is a great comfort that it can 
be done but once. 
Agrippina 

O inconstant man! I say no more. 
Seneca (aside to himself) 

Better to die, than that its deadly thoughts 
Should seize the mind; for then the soul becomes 
A Hell within, where wretched errors take 
The shape of devils, and transgressions reign; 
So vilest thoughts with rankest deeds must range. 
And by their own abuses reckon up 
Through these short-numbered hours of fickle 

Time 
The debt that's due to sovereign Deities. 



MYRRHA 39 

[Turning to Nero] 
Good-night, my royal pupil; now that you 
Are master of the world, heed still my rede, 
But heed especially your mother's voice. 
A mother, Nero, is the noblest gift 
The gods bestow on man, more precious far 
Than all the treasures of humanity. 
If you have dark and secret discontents 
And sorrows gnawing frail mortality 
Most fitting is it you should go to her 
Whose love endures with unextinguished fire. 

Nero 

I am most indebted to you both; the one-half of 
my executions shall be based on your good phil- 
osophy, the other on the example of my noble 
mother. 

Seneca (to Burrus) 

Put on him now the purple and the crown. 

[To Nero] 
Tomorrow we'll attend you to the Court. 
[Exeunt Seneca and Burrus] 

Nero (turning to his mother) 

Just and inevitable that I reign! 

Agrippina 

But why idealize yourself a god? 

Nero 

To set things right — 'tis what the mob admires. 
Now will I overstar the splendid stars 
Of night, outstorm the sea's untimely rage 
From anguished continents to distant isles; 



40 MYRRHA 

Then on the skies' prodigious meteors 

ril build a palace made of gold and pearls. 
Agrippina 

Wade not too far, my boy, in waves of pride; 

You owe this glory all to me. The throne 

We two shall share — together rule the world. 
Nero 

Together ? 
Agrippina 

Both. 
Nero 

Nay, why not I alone. 

To rule it through mine own integrity? 
Agrippina (aside to herself) 

Ha ! there's an alteration in his soul. 
[Aloud] 

For two can rule with somewhat greater power. 
Nero (to himself, noticing his mother^ s distress) 

I will be Caesar, but I'll humor her. 
[Aloud] 

Well, as you will, so be it mother mine: 

Within our realm there shall be perfect trust 

And tyranny shall fall. 
Agrippina 

So may it be! 
Nero 

As once my ends were yours, so doubly now. 

A happy era draws upon the world: 

Let never man believe in happiness. 

Who not was bom, nor lived in Nero's time. 



MYRRHA 41 

Agrippina 

Hail Nero Imperator, Caesar hail! 
[Smiling] 

Remember, though, that Caesars are not gods. 
Nero 

Now I must go. 
Agrippina 

And why? 
Nero 

To Acte's home: 

Farewell, dear mother, till tomorrow morn. 
[Exit Nero] 
Agrippina (looking towards Nero as he retires) 

'Tis almost finished now. There's little more 

To do. 

[Shouts from without] 
The multitude he called his friends ! 

Poor Claudius, dost see what issue takes 

Thy plans when Death with cold and perfect poise 

Enfolds thee on thy pyre? Ha, ha, 'tis well! 

And yonder stars are falling down, great gems 

For me to girdle, blind and bind the world. 

I must wed Nero to Octavia, 

Both to preserve the Augustinian line 

And wean him from this Acte, lowly born. 

Youth without prudence chooses oft those loves 

Most unbefitting to nobility. 

Age may do what is right, youth what it lists. 

Octavia knows little of intrigues; 

Their nuptials be my step behind the throne. 



42 MYRRHA 

One move could ruin all; let me take time 
But it must not be needlessly delayed. 
[Enter Britannicus followed by Octavia] 

OCTAVIA 

Alas my father! woe and misery! 

[Glaring at her stepmother] 
You stand, you look compassionating me? 
Away! mine eyes are opened to your lies. 
My poor dear father ! hear me : look on me I 
For one short moment open your dear eyes. 

[Sobbing] 
This is Octavia, your little girl! 
I am so full of woe. Will you not speak? 
Will you not clasp your child, cold loving arms? 
See now I come to claim you. Why, oh why 
Can I not with my strength raise you from this 
Cold helplessness ? 
Agrippina {aside to herself) 

I cannot bear this scene. 
[Aloud] 
Good-night, Britannicus, I'd best leave you 
And you, Octavia, with your heavy grief. 

[Glancing at the corpse] 
The worst day of one's life is oft the last, 
Well, Claudius, for you that day is past. 
[Exit Agrippina] 
Britannicus {standing closely beside Octavia and 
gazing on his dead father's face.) 

Ah, father dear, nobility's bright seal 
Is still upon your countenance, and from 
Your brow life's majesty hath not ^et fled, 



MYRRHA 43 

Must soon these features fail : and soon your lips, 
Your cheeks grow pale, relinquish beauty's pride 
For dusts that bargain with the careless winds? 
About this wreck is something royal still 
Which mighty Death respects. From these closed 

eyes 
Immortal longings reach beyond the stars 
And live. Though life in time must end, — the soul 
Shall never die, that warmed this kingly brow, 
This canopy of thoughts mysterious seat; 
Not all our deeds and works, our hopes and loves 
Shall shrink and narrow down to nothingness 
In crumbling clay. Death leads to fuller life! 

little self so lost in jungle-wilds 

Of vanity! How quickly Death will feed 

In all its millon cruel ways on this 

Our one imagined godhead, wondrous self! 

OCTAVIA 

We stand tonight upon a precipice. 
Britannicus 

'Tis drawing near to dawn, — we must retire. 

OcTAVIA 

No, no, I cannot go! what shall I do? 

1 trust her not — I trust not Agrippine! 
She shakes her head and mutters sympathy. 
My noble father! O you sifting dusts. 
Dear relics of our childhood, you cry out 
Perhaps against oblivion; while we 

Still live and feel; we hear your voice, strange, 

strong, 
Compassionate. By this last kiss — to these 



44 MYRRHA 

Poor streaming eyes O turn and hear me call 
And pity my estate. 
Britannicus 

Dear sister, come. 
[Enter Myrrha] 
[The girl steals softly towards the adjoining room, 
peers in, turns back, then kneels quietly upon the 
floor. ] 
Myrrha (clasping her hands in prayer) 

O Christus, Christus, Prince of Mystery! 
Thine Advent here, let it be now proclaimed; 
Thou Miracle of God — Redeemer, Thou 
Bring comfort to these children in their grief. 

CURTAIN 



ACT II 



ACT II 

Time— Two years later. Place— Rome 

Scene i : 

A street. In the background are distant palaces. 
To the left a fountain of Neptune is plashing. 
As the curtain rises a half -grown lad is discovered 
sitting on the base rim of the fountain and sobbing 
bitterly. 

[Enter Britannicus] 

Britannicus 

What is your name ? Why do you weep, my Uttle 
man? 
Epictetus 

They call me Epictetus ; I am the slave of Epaph- 
roditus the Emperor's secretary. I fell and 
hurt my leg against this fountain. Nay! Do 
not be angry with me, I will bear the pain. 
Britannicus 

It surely was a heavy fall to so have lamed you. 
You must have twisted your leg. 
Epictetus 

My leg was broken, Prince, but not by accident, 
as I shall tell you. I was deformed from birth 
and useless: still, my master thought that he 
45 



46 MYRRHA 

might turn me to some good account by teaching 
me philosophy. Therefore, he made me book 
carrier to his son, who attends the lectures of 
Musonius Rufus. Musonius was good and 
kind, allowing me to sit near by and listen. 
Fm not a stoic as yet but I shall try some day 
to be. 
Britannicus 

But you are not telling me about your hurt: how 
did you become so lame? 
Epictetus 

Some weeks ago, most noble Prince, it chanced, 
As I was walking past the Aventine, 
I met a leader of this Jewish sect, 
This Christian superstition, now in Rome: 
And spreading in Trans-Tiber rapidly. 
Britannicus (frowning) 
Who is their leader? 
Epictetus 

Paul of Tarsus, Prince. 
A Jew by birth, quite bent with age. He then 
With Rufus of Cyrene, Simon's son, 
Held converse and I loitered there to hear. 
I heard him say how Simon gave some aid 
When Christus bore His Cross to Calvary. 
Then Paulus spoke to all. There was indeed 
Much good in his philosophy, — I felt 
Forthwith impelled to spring and cast myself 
Before his dust-stained feet. "Be comforted," 
He said, "in sickness and in dire distress, 
In all of life's afflictions strive by Faith. 



MYRRHA 47 

And be against earth's sin and vanity, 

Strong doers of the good, nor merely hear." 

He had a gracious countenance and what 

He said seemed true, and right, and beautiful: 

His statement calm, and majesty of phrase 

His teaching certified, — it banished doubt. 

"Him Peter, John and many others saw 

Upon the third day risen from the dead; 

And spoke with Him in old Jerusalem. 

They saw Him rise in glory to the sky. 

Myself beheld the Christ, when from my horse 

Upon Damascus road, in blinding light 

He struck me in my pride and bade me cease 

My persecution of His followers. 

First, let your wisdom show that we speak false,— 

This testimony may not be denied. 

So many trusty witnesses affirm." 

So spoke the Jew, and it was hard to doubt. 

My master then appeared and angrily 

Rebuked me for my loitering; he bade 

Return with him to pay the penalty 

In pain, for listening to seditious speech. 

Straightwith he ordered that they twist my leg. 

This hurt me terribly, but I had heard 

The words of Paulus bidding to endure. 

I only cried, *Tf thou dost go on thus, 

Thou'lt surely break my leg." He did go on. 

He broke my leg. I did not cry out then, 

And I'm ashamed to be seen weeping now. 

O that I'd never seen the walls of Rome, 



48 MYRRHA 

But could return to bright resplendent Greece, 

To see its palaces and shrines again! 
Britannicus 

Poor lad! Come with me to my sister, she 

Is kind and will I'm sure relieve your pains. 

Let's not be sorrowful, for grief the gods 

Offends. 
Epictetus 

The Empress is beloved by all. 
Britannicus 

This Paulus here, of Tarsus, — let me hear, — 

Say on, what more you know, — where dwells he? 
Tell 

With whom consorting, while he bides in Rome? 
Epictetus 

He preached in Ephesus, in Corinth too, 

Philippi and in Thessalonica ; 

My lord, his wisdom seems in many ways 

Pro founder than the learning here in Rome. 

He teaches of a life beyond the tomb, 

And that his Master was the Son of God. 
Britannicus 

And, Epictetus, where is his abode? 
Epictetus 

The house of Aulus Plautius knows him well : 

'Tis said in fact the noble Aulus' wife 

Has now embraced this Faith. 
Britannicus 

There you are wrong : 

Pomponia would not heed such foolish talk. 



MYRRHA 49 

Epictetus (seriously) 

There must be One who scattered seeds of stars, 

Created years, from chaos drew this earth; 

Then breathed the immortal soul and life in man. 
Britannicus 

Yours is most amateur philosophy; 

Musonius surely, never taught you that ! 
Epictetus (glancing down the street) 

See Paul of Tarsus coming now, this way: 

The people gaze upon him curiously. 
Britannicus (looking in the direction indicated by 
his companion) 

Stand by, my lad, and I will speak with him : 

Indeed, there's something noble in his mien. 
[Enter Paulus of Tarsus] 
[The Apostle is seen to be slightly bent with age, 

but has in his step the carriage of a Roman patri- 
cian. ] 
Britannicus 

Hail, Jew! 
Paulus 

A Roman citizen, as well. 
[Recognizing Britannicus] 

Greetings, my lord, our Prince Britannicus. 
Britannicus 

And whither are you going? answer, friend. 
Paulus 

About my business. Prince. 
Britannicus 

That may be well, 

But durst thou answer thus when Ceasar speaks? 



50 MYRRHA 

Paulus (calmly) 

I render unto Caesar what is his. 
Britannicus 

Our only homage unto Caesar is: 

What is your work? 
Paulus 

My Master's. 
Britannicus 

Pray, good sir. 

Whom do you serve? 
Paulus 

I serve the Son of Man. 
Britannicus (with irritation) 

Speak not in riddles, Jew. Why, who is He? 

What right have you to use the tongue of gods? 
Paulus 

Your pardon. Prince, I use the tongue of Faith, 

Revealing clear the Infinite in man. 

Is't error if in this deceitful world 

I preach the truth? Nay, you agree with me? 
Britannicus 

There is some force of precept in your words, 

A splendid oneness in your politics. 

But why disdain our Empire's noble gods? 

Be careful of such rhetoric, my friend. 
Paulus 

I speak quite plainly out, perhaps a fault. 

Dear Prince, your noble spirit must perceive 

That vice is over all the world, and Rome 

A lighted candle melting fast. What good 

These palaces, this mass of pinnacles 



MYRRHA 51 

Moulding this thing or that into a god? 

Of neither "gods" nor "goddess" does He hear. 

One guide, one Saviour is my pilgrimage; 

There is nor Greek, nor Jew, barbarian, 

Nor bond, nor free; but Christ is all — in all. 

I speak in words to heal the broken heart. 

To sooth the sorrows of a weeping world, 

To turn the emptiness of evil, Prince, 

To fullest worth and living deeds of good. 

I bring salvation from the Son of Man. 

Britannicus 

Here no conditions, no decrees of man 
May dare control the dark frontiers of Death ; 
The noblest forms shrink to the common dust. 
In that foul prison none again may breathe: — 

Paulus 

When I yield up this breath, I live to breathe 
Eternal Happiness — His promise true. 
The promise of the Risen Lord. 

Britannicus 

Ha, ha. 
You are a Christian then — a worshipper 
Of Him whom Pontius Pilate crucified? 

Paulus 

But testified he found no fault in Him. 

Britannicus 

Will you not render unto Caesar, Jew? 

Paulus 

Yes, Prince, as I have told you, what is his — 
My Master was specific in those words: 



52 MYRRHA 

With due allegiance I obey Rome's laws ; 
No man may rule the kingdom of the soul. 

Britannicus 

This Christianity is treason, sir. 

Paulus 

How so? We come as teachers not as foes. 

The path of righteousness in essence is 

The same though different in its forms. The sea 

Is one, yet on its many shores are found 

And blent through ages varied tribes and tongues 

And natures widely different, minds distinct, 

Ripened in power or philosophy : 

For all the mountain peaks of Right are one 

Standing immovable and stony-hard ; 

Day has its changing gold, night fickle arts 

But heaven's starry necklace is the same 

Fore'er encircling Time's vast, heaving sea. 

Truth like the stars gives little notice. Prince, 

To movements and short-comings of the world. 

Britannicus (looking at Epictetus and smiling) 
Indeed, that's not such poor philosophy. 

Paulus 

Nothing that's great or good can treason be. 

Britannicus (to himself) 

Something there is that draws me to this man, 

An influence I felt but once before 

When Myrrha told me first this Christus tale. 

[To Paulus] 
Old Jew, I do believe you are sincere. 
Pray, tell me, sir, where you are going now. 
That I myself may hear your ministry. 



MYRRHA 53 

You know my lot upon the Palatine 

Is not especially a happy one. 

Fear not that I'll betray your mysteries : 

There's still a soul within the Claudii 

That will find virtue if 'tis hid in Rome. 
Paulus 

You are a friend, and I believe you true. 
Britannicus 

Choose me to prove it, Paulus. 
Paulus 

Good, my lord. 

Unto the house of Aulus Plautius come, 

Christ's teachings there I will relate to you, 

In no way hurtful to the minds of Rome 

And most befitting your nobility. 
[Enter Tigellinus with a file of soldiers] 
TiGELLiNus (calling t-wo of his men and pointing to 
Paulus) 

Arrest that man and pending my commands 

Have him imprisoned in the Mamertine. 
Britannicus {turning suddenly upon Tigellinus) 

Upon what edict, prefect? gently, now. 
[Turning to the soldiers] 

A\^ithhold those chains. 
Tigellinus {recognizing Britannicus) 

Shall I be chid—? 
Britannicus 

Obey. 
Tigellinus 

But surely Prince, street brawls are not for you. 



54 MYRRHA 

Britannicus 

I asked why you have seized upon this man? 
So far I note you have not answered me. 

TiGELLINUS 

On orders from the sacred Emperor. 

Britannicus 

Is not there noble blood beneath gray hairs? 
You shall do nothing to this guiltless man. 
Show me your warrant, TigeUinus; oft 
You know there's little good in argument. 

TiGELLINUS (becoming angry) 

Can Caesar's brother find him nought to do 
Except defend and chat with lowly slaves? 
Where are the precepts of the Palatine? 

Britannicus (white with rage) 

Control your insolence ! Since when good sir, 

Is son of Claudius and of Mes saline 

Acountable to TigeUinus for 

His friends? You grow presumptuous, I say. 

You have no warrant for this man — you lie ! 

Release him, must I bid you twice? If so, 

By all the gods, sir prefect, I declare 

Your veins before tomorrow shall be drained. 

TiGELLINUS (controlling his anger and motioning the 
guards to release Paulus) 

These Christians look not well to Nero's eyes : 
He will make much of what you hold for nought. 

Britannicus 

That is poor patterned sample from your tongue ; 

With Nero, I myself will settle this. 

Come, Jew; come, boy, let us be on our way. 



MYRRHA 55 

[Exeunt Britannicus, Paulus and Epictetus] 
TiGELLiNus (to himself) 

Chafe not Praetorian pride too far, young man. 
Your credit doth not stand so well at court. 
You shall repay me this embarrassment, 
For I can Nero ply with perfect ease. 
Already is it rumored that the Queen, 
Whose mind ambition rules with despot sway 
Will threaten to enthrone Britannicus 
Where she has just so foully set her son. 

[Smiling maliciously] 
A ruin, trust me, shall conclude this all. 
Fear harrows Nero's soul, — the loss of throne 
Usurped: — to what extremes he then may go. 
Who knows ? Why tarry o'er my cherished plans ? 
Great resolutions waver if we wait, 
Much thought intimidates the strongest heart. 
I shall begin to-night; revenge may yet 
Surpass those crimes now in the palace rife. 

Curtain 



56 MYRRHA 

SCENE II 

A few days later. 

Scene 2 : 

Same as Act I. Scene 2. As the curtain rises, 
Agrippma is discovered sitting on a couch. She 
is arguing in rather loud tones with Seneca. The 
philosopher is pacing back and forth. 

Agrippina 

I feel at my wit's end. 
Seneca 

How so? Why scan 

With troubled eyes these boyish loves ? 
Agrippina 

Discourse ! 

Discourse and argue! piling word on word! 
Seneca 

Why make a tomb of youth's affections? 
Agrippina 

Of this be sure, my own's my own. 
Seneca 

And so — ? 
Agrippina 

His low intrigue with Otho's wife must cease; 

Poppaea soon will fill this court with shame. 

You scoff at my distress — what have I done? 
Seneca (to himself) 

To argument is evil mind averse, 

For fear it break down mischief's premises. 



MYRRHA 57 

Agrippina 

My son shall not divorce Octavia. 
Seneca (to himself) 

Is such the waking of her finer sense? 
[Aloud] 

She's barren — marriage is Hke casting dice. 

He should have sons. 
Agrippina 

By this Poppaea ? No ! 

Divorce is prostitution legalized, 

Oft hazards brings, and always self-reproach. 
Seneca 

I pray the gods, in good or evil times 

That I may ne'er with woman argue long. 
Agrippina 

A woman's aim should be above divorce. 
Seneca 

Your son's a man. 
Agrippina (sarcastically) 

To do then what he wills? 

I praise your wit decreeing right or wrong: 

A man ! you men may do your wrong, and time, 

My friend, will cast its shadow o'er the crime; 

But let a woman lose her goodly name 

She then is doomed to everlasting shame. 
Seneca (cynically) 

Such novel dogmas on the Palatine; 

The question is of Nero, is it not? 
Agrippina 

At least Octavia holds her tongue; 'tis well; 

She does not interfere in state affairs. 



58 MYRRHA 

Seneca 

While Nero trifles you can rule in peace — 
He better toys with women than with Rome. 
Agrippina 

Now what has put this madness in your head? 
No, no ! Poppaea has no soul at all, 
She has ambition, and is beautiful, 
But conscienceless she'd gladly seize the throne; 
Besides my son shall not defile his wife; 
For Rome shall have an Empress not a bawd. 
I made him Caesar, do you understand? 
Seneca 

Lady — 
Agrippina 

You cannot baffle me with your evasions. Go 
teach him singing, dancing, masquerading, 
verse-making, stage-playing, any bragging art, 
and Greek buffoonery before a lot of fawning 
dogs ; but his mother, she — I will answer for his 
heart. I will be the touchstone for my son's 
virtue. 
Seneca 

But that's not all, you must be wise as well. 
Trust not that Nero will be swayed at will, 
Especially from this intrigue of his ; 
Change for the worse oft follows good advice. 
That much I fear. 
Agrippina 

Hence trust it to my care. 
Seneca 

The glamour of a crown on youthful brows 



MYRRHA 59 

Will not yield mildly to a mother's word — 
It glows the stronger for opposing it. 

Agrippina 

A fine conclusion — you are frank at least, 
But I will handle family affairs. 

Seneca 

Since you have spoken, Madam, I'll retire. 

The flame you've kindled may be hard to quench. 

Farewell, my Empress. 

[Exit Seneca] 

Agrippina (to herself) 

Whom shall I invoke? 
A plague on Seneca's philosophy! 
Besides, he knows not all, and like a fool 
I stand and listen to a dreamer's trash. 
Security of mind! where art thou flown? 
These hands shall not be severed from their power 
By this alluring wanton Nero's found. 
When all is done a mother's rule is best, 
This even when 'tis o'er an Emperor. 
Say that I must be cautious, humble too, 
Before this puny phantom I have raised? 
Will Nero learn to heed the voice of duty? 
Avoid the damning, tempting devils here 
At court? They grin at us in graven gods 
Beneath each temple-roof. He must be led, — 
And yet, I fear it will awaken strife. 
[Enter Nero] 

Nero (impatiently) 

Your message calls for comment, here I am. 
'Tis novel Caesar answers a command. 



6o MYRRHA 

Agrippina 

Not so, I am your mother always, sir, 

To whom you ever owe a son's respect. 
Nero 

Before you then, Fm not an Emperor? 

So ! I estrange my nature from my crown. 
Agrippina 

Let us sit down, and, Nero, patient be. 

And each see vision through the other's eyes. 
Nero 

The eye that sees the most is Caesar's eye. 
Agrippina 

The eye that sees the best is mother's eye. 

Do you not know you owe your throne to me? 
Nero 

Could I forget it, told so oft each day? 
Agrippina 

Did I not sacrifice a name for you? 
Nero 

Perhaps ; and yet you said, "We two" would rule. 

Was it for this that you have sent for me. 

To mourn despairingly a throne that's gone? 
Agrippina 

I'm far from beggared yet. 'Twere wiser far, 

To sit and, Nero, heed what I suggest. 

I tell you plainly this intrigue of yours 

Must cease. Poppea must depart. 
Nero 
) Strong words 

And hammer strokes ! Ye gods, I'll not hear this ! 



MYRRHA 6i 

Agrippina 

Already has the rumor reached your wife; 

No other woman would endure the scorn. 
Nero 

What is my rank? 
Agrippina 

Yes, I have said it, sir. 

The Caesar's nuptial bond shall sacred be. 
Nero 

Now do I hear amiss? 
Agrippina 

My speech is plain. 

I warn you, Nero, 'gainst unkind mistakes. 

Marc Anthony might once have ruled the world; 

His wife Octavia — 
Nero 

I've heard enough. 

Now mother you have gone too far. Rule Rome 

But let my heart alone. Love never shall 

A menace prove unto my crown nor state; 

Yet all as well as I are bound to love. 

If I have found a woman I prefer 

Your thought perforce must yield its place to 
mine; 

Your effigies shall still be on the coins, 

Your orders here will always be obeyed. 
Agrippina 

Who made you Emperor, but I ? Come, speak ! 
Nero 

It is no pleasure to be Emperor 

If you must spy and dominate this way. 



62 MYRRHA 

Agrippina (angrily) 

Ye gods, do you dare call me spy? 
Nero 

I do. 
Agrippina 

The daughter of Germanicus called spy 

By Aenobarbus! weakling, imbecile! 

Poor actor, rag and feather-trimmed! ha, ha! 

Nay, pose and rant, or reel off doggerel? 

But understand the Senate looks to me: 

I did it ; yes, my name I sold for you. 
Nero 

Enough of this, enough, enough, I say! 
Agrippina 

I was a fool, too rash — 
Nero 

You weary me. 
Agrippina (pacing back and forth) 

wronged Britannicus — Octavia! 

Ah, yes, Britannicus shall have his right; 

1 realize now your ingratitude. 
Nero 

Be still ! do you not know I Caesar am, 

That premise all superior to Time, 

A god among the gods, — before whose word 

The temples of the earth may stand or fall? 

My fingers can dry up the deepest sea, 

My eyelids make of Rome a solitude. 

I am omnipotent. 



MYRRHA 63 

Agrippina 

Conceited fool, 

You are too proud of your authority. 
Nero 

Forbear! dare not my patience to abuse! 
Agrippina 

The gods smite heavily the sin of pride. 
Nero 

What part of you I be, I do not know. 

But part of you I am — that crime is yours. 
Agrippina 

Conceit has little for security. 
Nero 

You tax me sorely : I am tired of this ! 

Such threats as you have made may not prove well 

For those whom you employ for your designs. 

My riches are the earth ! Ah, prostrate Rome 

No lustre knows save that which shines from me ! 

Shall power like mine your puny passion dread? 
Agrippina (relaxing and putting her arms about her 
son) 

O Nero, I am done with bitter words. 

A mother's love both blessing is and curse: — 

Where shines the light that will outshine that love ? 

'Tis like the silent action of the gods. 

Oft ill requited, — cast, like pearls to swine. 
Nero 

And better so since me it cast for Rome 

To overlay the world with genius rare, 

And feed impoverished divinity. 



64 MYRRHA 

Agrippina (sadly) 

My duty is to thee and to the State, 
Performing both it seems I'm loved by none. 

[Smiling] 
Would that your gratitude could match your grace. 

Nero 

Oft patience far outshines ingratitude; 
But mother I'll forgive you now this time, 
You hold your woman's views, let me have mine ! 
[Enter Tigellinus] 

TiGELLINUS 

Hail Caesar! 
Agrippina (to herself and glaring at Tigellinus) 
How I hate this fawning dog. 
[To Tigellinus] 
What brings you, Prefect, here between us two? 
Go take your business and your schemes elsewhere. 
Nero 

No, no, he has my perfect confidence. 
Agrippina (sweeping past the Prefect and turning to 
Nero) 

In that event your mother will retire. 

[To herself] 
I fear there's mischief now between those two. 
[Exit Agrippina into the adjoining room, closing 
the door behind her.] 
Nero 

Let her depart. She puts my power to proof 
At times. 
Tigellinus (with insinuation) 

Could that mean danger to your throne? 



MYRRHA 65 

Nero (carelessly) 

Did you speak ? Well now, what news ? Did you 
arrest, as you threatened, that Paulus? 

TiGELLINUS 

I had no warrant, Caesar; he is a Roman citizen. 
Furthermore, when I attempted to execute your 
orders I was prevented from doing so by your 
brother Britannicus. 
Nero (reddening with anger) 

Britannicus! did he dare interfere? 

TiGELLINUS 

Yes, and without some sort of a warrant I was 
quite powerless. However, I arrested one 
Epictetus, who was there with the prince. From 
this prisoner I shall obtain information that may 
give us a clue to things of great importance and 
aid us in quickly stamping out a sect which 
threatens your sacred majesty. 
Nero (to himself) 

Britannicus, eh eh? Britannicus — 

Britannicus — removing him, there would 

No question be of my succession sure 

To Caesar's throne. Twould take the sting from 

her 
Who threatened this great sovereignty. Fears! 

Risks ! 
Well ! let them come and I shall dare them all. 
Oft there's a time propitious in the acts 
Of man, if he but blink at consequence 
And shun debates his conscience would indulge, 
His very rashness will bring such results 



^ MYRRHA 

As never prudence chill or scruples vain. 

She lunges at my throne behind his mask, 

Yet prates of mother-love and sacrifice. 

In woman honor moves as shadows do 

And tickles idle ears. Now let me think. 

If I could find some cause to keep him down! 

Assassination, poison, must not be. 

Such policy is bad for those reforms 

Which I shall soon decree throughout the realm. 
TiGELLiNus (noticing Nero's silence^ 

You seem good Caesar moved by solemn 
thoughts — ? 
Nero 

In silence wisdom finds her best ally. 

All great events are born with fewest words. 

Now come tomorrow and report to me 

What said this slave you hold in prison now. 

But for the present nothing say about 

Britannicus. I'll balance his account. 

Farewell. 

\Ex%t Nero] 

TiGELLINUS 

For Tigellinus, it bodes well. 
My web weaves now of its own self. I work 
By wit and not by treachery, ha, ha. 
Fear is a pestilence to those in power 
And Nero has the greatest fears put on; 
As I entangle him, I snare them all. 
\Exit Tigellinus] 

Curtain 



MYRRHA 67 

SCENE III 

The next day. ^ Place — Rome 

Scene 3 : 

The inside of a prison. The gloomy chamber is 
walled on all sides with solid blocks of stone, re- 
lieved in the background by an entrance. On 
either side of the entrance are seen two armoured 
and helmeted guards. In the right wall is a low 
xut doorway. This is closed and bolted, but evi- 
dently opens into an inner chamber. 
Enter Tigellinus, followed by Servilius. The 
guards salute the Prefect as he passes them. 

TiGELLINUS 

You have the boy, ServiUus? 
Servilius 

Prefect, aye, 
[Pointing to the door on the right] 
He is within ; I thought the torture- room 
Would shake his spirit and unloose his tongue. 
The lad himself is not of that vile sect : 
A strange community, this Christian crew ! 
I cannot fathom it. The members seem 
Possessed with god-like will and fortitude. 
TiGELLINUS {impatiently) 

You have this Epictetus here? Tis well. 
[He motions the guards to retire] 
[Exeunt guards] 



68 MYRRHA 

Servilius 

Not timely though. 

TiGELLINUS 

Not timely? How is that? 
Servilius 

Octavia visits here about this hour — 

Inspecting prisons is her latest whim: — 

She'll have a pious fit and seize our prey. 
TiGELLINUS (smiling) 

Such interference could but aid my plans. 

But let's be done with this before she comes. 

Where did you find the slave? And how? with 
whom? 
Servilius 

Near Plautius' house beyond the Palatine. 

No one was with him, Prefect, at the time. 

TiGELLINUS 

At any cost he must make known to us 
The names of those who meet at Plautius' house. 
Perchance we'll find in league with traitors now 
Our noble Prince Britannicus. If he 
Were there — see to it that this boy shall now 
Confess. My guess, I think, will not be wrong. 
The timely use of such — this treachery 
When given Nero of Britannicus 
Will serve to his indictment and disgrace, 
And lift me higher still within the realm 
Of favor. Bring the prisoner now to me. 
[Servilius moves toward the door, unlocks it and 
goes in to the adjoining room. He returns a mo- 
ment later with the lad Epictetus. The aedile 



MYRRHA 69 

pushes the prisoner before Tigellinus. Epicte- 
Tus appears dazed and starts slightly on seeing the 
Prefect.] 

Would you go free, my lad ? 
Epictetus (with sudden courage) 

O yes, good sir ! 
I've done no wrong. Please let me go — go free. 
Tigellinus (sternly) 

Well ! follow you this Jew ? this Nazarene ? 
Epictetus 

Epaphroditus is my master, sir. 
Please let me go. 
Tigellinus 

You worship Christus, too? 
Servilius (grasping the prisoner roughly by the arm) 

Make answer! 
Epictetus 

No, I worship gods of Rome. 
Tigellinus 

You visit at the house of Plautius, though? 
Epictetus (startled) 

Why do you ask me that? 
Servilius 

Don't question; speak! 
[Servilius takes a whip from the wall] 
Epictetus (hesitating for a moment) 

Sir Prefect, yes. 
Tigellinus 

Ah, whom did you see there? 
Epictetus 

The leader Paulus: Linus too was there. 



70 MYRRHA 

TiGELLINUS 

But those are Christians; any Romans there? 
[Epictetus starts again, moves uneasUy but sets his 
teeth] 
Epictetus 

And that I should not tell — I will not tell. 

TiGELLINUS 

Then you admit there were some Romans there? 
Epictetus 

I will not say — I will not answer you. 

TiGELLINUS (to SeRVILIUS) 

The whip, Servilius, the lash will loose his tongue. 
[Servilius lashes the boy several times across the 
back and legs. He utters a cry and falls to the 
floor.] 
Epictetus (half rising upon one knee) 

pity! 

TiGELLINUS 

Did you meet Britannicus ? 
Epictetus 

1 don't remember. 
TiGELLINUS (to Servilius) 

Put him on the rack; 
Now that, I think, will shake his stubbornness. 

[To Epictetus] 
Stay boy, give us the name of Romans there, 
The names of all, and we will let you go. 
Epictetus 

I can endure the pain, I will not tell. 



MYRRHA 71 

TiGELLINUS 

Do you refuse ? The rack, Servilius ! 
You saucy varlet, you are very bold. 
[Servilius drags the lad beneath the low opening. 
The rattle of chains and rope is heard, followed an 
instant later by the agonizing shrieks of their 
victim. 
TiGELLINUS (moving over and peering through the 
doorway) 
Wilt answer now? 
Epictetus (heard from within) 

I cannot bear it — oh ! 

TiGELLINUS 

Then answer ! 
Epictetus 

Mercy ! no, O mercy, no ! 
[Enter Octavia. The Empress is preceded by the 
two prison gimrds and escorted by two of her 
maids-in-waiting. ] 
Octavia (rushing up to Tigellinus) 

What do I hear? A child — a child's scream here? 
[She looks about the prison rapidly, then reddens 
with anger] 

I wish I were a man to strike you dead. 
Epictetus (from adjoining room) 
O spare me! 
[Octavia moves rapidly across the room, stoops and 
looks through the low opening] 
Octavia (in screaming tones to Servilius) 

Stop at once, in Caesar's name! 
Release — release him ! Bring the boy to me. 



72 MYRRHA 

[Turning upon Tigellinus] 

You are a coward — ^think — a child like that! 
[Clasping her hands] 

Shall such black deeds as this eclipse my reign ? 

I*d rather die enslaved than rule such shame. 
Tigellinus (impatiently) 

You are intruding on my orders strict ; — 

We cannot guide the state by sentiment. 
Oct A VI A (raising her hand as if to strike him) 

Your life shall pay for this new insolence. 
Tigellinus (with feigned apology) 

Yes, I was hasty, Empress, pardon me. 
[OcTAviA paces hack and forth impatiently awaiting 

Servilius to bring in his victim] 
OcTAviA (to Tigellinus) 

No more of this, vile Prefect. To your knees! 

Go down upon your knees to Caesar's wife. 
[The Prefect makes obeisance] 
Tigellinus (to himself) 

Play well my part and I shall win the day 

Despite this pious parrot. Patient be. 

She'll soon be prostrate as her party is. 
[Enter Servilius, carrying Epictetus in his arms. 

He lays the youth roughly on the floor. Octavia 

kneels down, lifts the lad's head to her knee and 

feels his heart.] 
Octavia (piteously) 

Poor boy ! 
Servilius 

He is unconscious ! 



MYRRHA 73 

TiGELLiNUS (calling two of the guards and pointing 
to a flask of wine on a small table) 

Give him wine. 
OcTAViA (kneeling and snatching glass from the guard) 
I'll give it him myself ; 'tis pitiful. 
[She pours some of the wine between the boy's lips] 

Look to it men, you shall atone for this. 
[Epictetus moves slightly and opens his eyes] 

I think he now revives, poor darling boy. 
^ [Glaring at Tigellinus and Servilius] 
For such as you the gods alone can tell 
Why they impose such vermin on the earth. 
[Epictetus chokes and endeavors to speak] 
What would you say to me, dear little boy ? 
Fear not, they shall not hurt you any more. 
Epictetus (faintly) 

The pain, the pain — 

[Recognizing Octavia] 

The Empress ! can it be ? 
You must not, Empress, hold a slave like me. 
O how shall I begin? O how can I 
So thank you — pray the gods to bless your name? 
Octavia (tenderly) 

Your courage is the thanks I value most. 

[To Tigellinus] 
Now, Tigellinus, I will take the lad 
With me. For you the world has other schemes 
To be concluded in a viper's mind. 
[Exeunt Octavia and her maids-in-waiting, fol- 
lowed by the two guards bearing with them 
Epictetus] 



74 MYRRHA 

TiGELLiNus {to himself) 

Aye "Madam Empress" — I have other schemes 
But this one you have helped unconsciously. 
Woe unto you and to your heritage. 

[To Servilius] 
I go to give the Emperor my report. 

[Exit TiGELLINUS] 

CURTAIN 



ACT III 



ACT III 

The following evening. Place- — Rome 

Scene i : 

A moonlight night in the garden of the Palace of 
the Caesars. To the left is a slightly raised ter- 
race beyond which the palace is seen with gleam- 
ing lights. The area is relieved hy statues, 
columns, and architraves, shaded hy large trees. 
Low shrubbery and flowers glitter mysteriously in 
the soft rays of the moon. A fountain is plash- 
ing; behind it is an arbored vine and nearby is a 
stone bench. 

[Enter Titus, followed by Vitelius, the dandy, who 
is half -intoxicated] 

VlTELIUS 

Heigh-ho, heigh-ho ! It is a stilly night 
For balladists. Ho Titus! lend your eyes. 
See yonder tiring moon, love-full, and white 
As Venus slipping into silks. Come down! 
Sitt'st thou, fond lady, on thy cushioned throne 
Of ivory, seducing youthful stars? 
Titus 

Vitelius, good nature may do much 
But drunkenness with you is a disease; 
75 



76 MYRRHA 

Your feet, your hands, your very finger ends. 
They never move without the aid of wine. 

VlTELIUS 

Ah, were my temper sober, sir, as yours, 
One's Ufe would lose its most romantic half. 
Would you, like Nero's wife, cut ope the side 
Of vice and heal all man's corruptions? 
Titus 

You judge her wrong! 

VlTELIUS 

Nayr — ^Heaven mismated them. 
Or rather Agrippina, take my word. 
Let me from Courts — who win there, lose. How 

fare 
Our crowned acquaintances who play and reach 
Those heights? 
Titus 

Ofttimes their fate is hard. 

VlTELIUS 

Always 
Their fate is heavy. Are not statues hard? 
Look where you please, back, down, or forward, 

who 
In Rome retain their entity save when 
Their features with the marbled gods are carved? 
And if the wings of gossip fly with truth. 
Grows now another plot on Palatine. 
Perverse and peevish, Nero — 
Titus 

Silence, fool — 



MYRRHA ^j 

VlTELIUS 

While Agrippina jealous of his power 
Knows well who has the title to the throne, 
The rightful heir, Britannicus — 
Titus 

Be still! 

VlTELIUS 

His fate is sealed, his life as good as gone. 

[Looking toward the palace] 
Oho! there comes the fair Octavia now. 
Accompanied by that winsome British slave. 
Fate flings these sweets to me. Now listen, friend : 
The flowers were not made for beauty's sake 
They bud to yield their honey — to the bee. 
This bee will sip anon; faith, as I am 
An honest fellow. 
Titus 

She is virtuous. 

VlTELIUS 

In woman virtue? Fie! On Palatine? 
Believe you so? Such faith in wenches makes 
Me smile. 
Titus 

I warrant you this humour bores. 

VlTELIUS 

This virtue's but a put-on thing, a masque 
Offensive to the clever ranks of Court 
Society. So much for frankness' sake. 
Now let me pass. O here is such a night 
Set up to gaze on trifling chastity! 



78 MYRRHA 

Titus 

Good patience guide me with this fellow ! Come, 
Keep we together or part company? 

ViTELius (as Titus pulls him by the arm) 

Yes, presently, but — speaking with respect^ — 
Pray what use serves me going that way, sir? 
O moon, O Love, I this, thou that, heigh-ho! 
Mark, mark and wonder! — ^bless ye, ladies fair: 
By Bacchus, I stay here! — have brains, have 
brains. 

Titus 

Come, man! in short, — no more of ribald jests. 
[Exit Titus, almost dragging Vitelius along with 
him] 

[Enter Myrrha and Octavia] 

Myrrha 

My best and dearest friend, you were so good 
To rescue that poor lad from torture dire! 

Octavia 

Let it appear so and it pleased me; still. 
Through mercy we do oft condemn ourselves. 
Now Tigellinus is mine enemy 
Who stands in Nero's highest favor here. 
This Tigellinus hath a cruel heart. 

Myrrha 

Good Empress, do not think of him. 

Octavia 

Observe 
Those trees that ofttimes to the tempest bend 
Still stand unhurt; yet these that brave the storm 
Are torn and hurled uprooted to the ground. 



MYRRHA 79 

You have a gentle heart; you cannot know 
Nor will I tell you. O to dream were sweet 
That I might ever feel the bliss of love ! — 
Or at my tender age could be beloved! 
My saddened fate is equalled here by none; 
I'm called to put aside my natural self 
And cheated out of all fair life would give; 
I seem to drift alone to meet my doom. 

Myrrh A {tenderly) 

No, not alone, dear Empress, I am here. 

OcTAViA {embracing her companion) 
Sweet Myrrha — 

Myrrh A {smiling) 

You have still Britannicus. 

OCTAVIA 

You are not quite my age, yet understand. 
I look each day upon my husband's face 
Distressed to see that he despises me. 

[Very sorrowfully] 
So I'm enthroned and yet I am a slave; 
O 'twas a monstrous sin this marriage, dear; 
It is so hard — O it is past my strength ! 
For Hke a wall before hate's edge I stand 
Begemmed with precious stones. In every stone 
There lurk the seeds of solitude and fear. 
The crown of Death would have a radiant setting 
To this soul-sick bejewelled recompense. 

Myrrha 

The people love you. 

OcTAViA {endeavoring to smile) 

Little comfort there! 



8o MYRRHA 

Because I long for joy, for quiet sleep 

With love upon my eye-lids. 
Myrrha (kissing her) 

Empress dear, 

Let's bear whatever fortune God may bring. 
Oct AVI A (smiling sadly) 

Come, I will try and let my heart be glad. 

Where is Britannicus? Ah, now you blush. 

Peace to your fondest thoughts if they're of love. 
Myrrha 

I've met him at the house of Aulus, oft. 

There's in another world diviner Love 

That weighs our motives and propels our thoughts. 

OCTAVIA 

I've found much solace in those teachings, dear. 
Some day I shall go hear their leader speak. 

Myrrha (to herself) 

Already are some energies undreamed 
At work in Rome. 

Oct AVI A (dreamily) 

I wonder what I am 
And where I'm from and whither I'm to go, 
So thus it is the commonwealth of thought 
Yearns on the cliff of Doubt, as through this life 
We roam in suffering. We know not whom 
To love. To whom shall we pay reverence? 
I would beUeve and yet what to believe? 
There must be One who owned us ere we owned. 

Myrrha 

The Living God owns us, there is but One. 



M YRRHA 8i 

OCTAVIA 

I do not know — I cannot understand ; 
How cold the process of omnipotence ! 
Is there a Paradise accessible 
From this alluring vileness painted here? 
There lies the agony of human thought, 
The masterpiece of its imagining, 
That spy which spies unsparing on itself 
As Conscience pleads for immortality 
While Reason coldly crushes hope with Death. 
Myrrha 

There will be ever life beyond the stars. 
Ah ! there's a blessed light beyond the stars. 
Whose tender Rays are Christ's Divinity 
Bequeathing us eternal happiness. 

OCTAVIA 

How wonderful, yet doubtful is it all. 
Myrrha 

Assurance firm is given in Christus' Faith. 
Oct AVI A 

Let us now put this seriousness off 

And talk about Britannicus. He said 

He would be here ; he must not find us sad. 

Come, tell me — do you love my brother, child? 

I ask because I know he worships you. 
Myrrha (blushing) 

I am no mate for Prince Britannicus. 

OCTAVIA 

You are so much my brother's mate, dear girl, 
You are so much the very soul of him. 
He would ascend the chariot of the sun 



82 MYRRHA 

To range the wilderness of distant space 

To be consumed by Phoebus' flames, if he 

For one day lost the light of your sweet eyes. 
Myrrh A 

Nor can I longer hide it; I love him. 

But O dear Empress, please my secret keep. 
Oct AVI A 

Be sure you have not erred in telling me! 

He comes. Farewell ! I leave you with your love. 
[Exit Octavia] 
[Enter Britannicus] 
Britannicus 

Awake ye lyres of night to Myrrha's voice! 

Ye solemn sleeping airs, ye nodding flowers, 

Awake beneath the fragrance of her breath ! 
[Seating himself beside her] 

Give me those hands, the dearest in the world, 

Press them before mine eyes, — feel there my soul. 

Why dwells that troubled look upon your face? 
Myrrha 

There is a time^ — 
Britannicus 

When Love will choose to love. 
Myrrha 

My lord, why do you greet me in this way? 
Britannicus 

Why? my heart's jewel! why? because of love. 
Myrrha 

Ah, how I dread the fervor of your words. 
Britannicus 

Such dreads are nothing if you think of love. 



MYRRHA 83 

How many stars In night's great silence, dear, 
Have wept or smiled upon Love's sacred stage. 

Myrrha 

This is no play, Britannicus, please hush. 

Britannicus 

Life is a play, but Love is that play's soul. 
I love you, Myrrha! see! a drama hes 
Completely writ in those three words. An act 
Whose stateliness is measured by itself 
And echoes through the fibres of the soul. 

Myrrha 

'Tis very strange, I seem to grow in strength. 

Britannicus 

Love grows apace as life goes on, — my love: 
There is no music in Truth's theatre. 
No chords of recompense, no loyalty 
Unless those words are in the audience. 
If there they be, and on the stage as well. 
The strangest secrecies of life applaud 
In ecstacy, and banish earthly woes 
Before that prologue of Love's sympathy. 

Myrrha 

O none have ever ventured this before. 

Britannicus 

And when the play is played — the curtain falls, — 

When every declaration is expressed, 

No uttered phrase can echo on the dome 

Or monuments of Time, to master it, — 

To still the resonance of that — I love ! 

Look on through years, look out upon the ways 

Appointed by the world, but hear — I love! 



84 MYRRHA 

It is in all the lifelong, death-long tales, 

The true, the beautiful: bestowing charm 

To give them life and loveliness and worth. 

Love binds our day-dawn to eternity. 

Our sunrise 'round the sapphire cup of heaven. 

Do not shrink now. 
Myrrha 

I understand, I know, — 

Yet there's a time when even love may fear 

And I fear for us both, Britannicus. 
Britannicus 

Then you do love me, Myrrha? tell it me. 
Myrrha 

I have no shame in telling you I do. 
Britannicus {kissing her tenderly) 

Fair Myrrha, sweetest Myrrha, my beloved ! 
Myrrha 

Am I all yours? 
Britannicus 

More than I living hoped. 
Myrrha 

Ah, clasp me in your arms, take all — take all ! 
Britannicus 

How soon the smile of Love can change the world. 

What do I want with thrones ? With toppling gods 

Or any other impulse from the stars? 

Here is fond Nature made angelical. 

To sing diviner hymns into my soul. 

To spread the richest perfumes at my feet. 
Myrrha (passionately) 

My own Britannicus, my blessed love. 



MYRRHA 85 

I am so happy. Let me here be ta'en; 
I could die now and leave life at its best, 
With all its suffering and pains mis-termed. 

it is all so strange ! 
Britannicus 

That we should love? 
[Passionately looking into her eyes'\ 
Fair reflexes, my twin divinities! 
So envious the feasting vault of heaven! 
Look down, gaze not upon the wanton night 
And make me jealous of the amorous stars. 
Though glorious be their brightness, yet I swear 
It hath been stolen only from your eyes. 
[Britannicus clasps Myrrha very closely to him] 
Myrrha 

But may I breathe, or just list to your heart? 
Britannicus 

The very beatings of that heart are yours. 
Myrrha 

1 fear for you, Britannicus, I fear — 
Could I but tell you — make you understand 
That even in this realm of wondrous night. 
There is a light that shines with fair deceit ; 
A sorrow fretting always close at hand 
Low-moaning here, the while we play with Joy. 

Britannicus 

Death is the worst that one can dread. 
Myrrha 

Nay dear. 

But should I part with you — 



86 MYRRHA 

Britannicus 

That ne'er shall be! 
Myrrha 

What wonder this? IVe suffered so; 'tis nought, 
My love, there seems in Rome but cruelty. 

[Voices heard in the distance] 
Hark, is not that the voice of Nero, hark ! 
Britannicus 

And Tigellinus with him. 
Myrrha 

Tigers both. 
So filled with hate and treachery, see, see, 

[Rising] 
They come this way — 
Britannicus 

With them is Burrus, too. 
Some good god frown on this intrusion. 
Myrrha 

'Twas this I feared — when sadness filled my 
speech. 
Britannicus 

Now Nature's cursed already; now hell-bred 
Disease with aspic poison fills the air. 
Crowned impotence! usurper of my throne! 
Why do the gods place him above the rest? 
O Hades' portal open for his soul. 

[Turning again to Myrrha] 
Let not the sight of them annoy your mind. 
We'll hence unto the palace now and tell 
Octavia of our plighting. Come, sweet love. 



MYRRHA 87 

[Myrrh A and Britannicus turn and walk up the 
pathway toward the gleaming lights of the Palace] 
[Enter Nero, Tigellinus and Burrus] 
Nero 

No more of your evasions, Prefect sly, 
For evil must be great indeed, if you 
Can hesitate to give it tongue. I have 
Here your report. My sacred person is 
Endangered and my orders not obeyed? 
Can find no crime against these Christians, eh? 
Tigellinus 

Your brother goes with them — 
Nero 

By Hades! — no! 
Tigellinus 

I learned this from the lad upon the rack. 
Nero 

Britannicus then plots against my life? 
Burrus 

Octavia brings you no children : Britannicus must 
in any case succeed you. 
Nero (pacing back and forth) 

Did you hear the murmur of applause that greeted 
his song the other night? He is not a man of 
safe discretion, eh, Burrus ? That applause was 
most insulting to my sacred talent, which pre- 
fers itself, sings itself unchallenged. There are 
no critics beneath the gods to judge my work. 
Tigellinus 

It is not so easy to fathom the plans of your 
august mother; besides, you are not on such 



88 MYRRHA 

especial good terms with her at present. Rome 
would not relish the thought of another civil 
war. 
Nero (starting) 

True, Tigellinus, true, and my mother's wrath has 
already shown itself. My love of Rome tells 
me of more than you can say: I can strike, I 
must not be weak. 
BuRRUS (in low tones) 

As long as Britannicus lives, Agrippina must be 
dreaded — the Praetorians are ever loyal to the 
daughter of Germanicus ; nor do Seneca's coun- 
sels soothe her ambitions. All props would fall 
with Britannicus. 
Tigellinus (to himself) 

I'm not so sure of that. My plans now weave 
A web to draw her too into its snare. 
I have begun — I will complete the work. 
Nero (in low tones) 

It must be done: Britannicus must die. 
Tigellinus 

Although most bloody be our thoughts put wit 
And glamour in their execution, sir. 
Nero 

What say ? Removed, what counterclaim has she ? 
See to it, Tigellinus, see to it. 
A genius has been given to the world 
Who must correct its rude unthankfulness. 
Tigellinus 

You have a banquet here tomorrow night : 
Now there could be some items at the feast 



MYRRHA 89 

Which would protect your crown, and yet add 

thrill 
And novel interest to the whole affair. 
Send for Locusta. She is old in trade, 
And could make goodly climax of her art. 
The associates of your brother should be there. 
And thus avoid suspicion in the act; 
Young Titus, Myrrha, Tucan and his friends. 
Nero 

My blood climbs back to where it should be, sir. 
ril do what you suggest. 

TiGELLINUS 

Ah, that is wise. 
Nero 

Go, hasten and Locusta send to me. 

[Exit TiGELLINUS ] 

[Looking up with arms outstretched to the firma- 
ment Nero becomes engrossed as it were, with 
his own great personality and power] 
O subtle Destiny, o'erhang, frown down ! 
From power such as mine, bow firmament ! 
Now tremble whipped, thou vast rotundity 
Pent up with lightning, thunder, wind and fire. 
The vital air is mine, the waters, mine; 
The gifts of Nature, fruitful, fair, all mine ; 
Here Nero stands, a lone omnipotence 
Filched from the womb of chaos, ere a ghost 
Or god sad-eyed and envious walked abroad 
In realms of unconjectured space. The world, 
The splendour of the sun and moon, yon stars 
Of rivalry and gems aflame, are mine; 



90 MYRRHA 

All solvent senses, fumes of reason, mine; 
All eyes and ears see not, hear not, but mine. 

[To BURRUS] 

Performed at supper, eh? Ah, there shall be 
A thrill in it ; and watch my mother's eyes. 
Her words did shake me, Burrus, for the nonce, 
Echoing to what is fiercest in my soul; 
But sudden waked to this necessity 
And fearing loss of my beloved verse. 
The gods command fulfillment of their will. 

[The lights go out and the stage is totally darkened 
for a few moments] 



Scene 2 : 

A secret chamber in the Palace. There are 

practically no decorations nor appointments save 

a low throne and a few pieces of furniture to 

harmonize. 

There is a small door on the right. 

Nero is seen seated; he appears impatient and 

perturbed. 

[Enter Locusta. She throws herself down, grovel- 
ling at the Emperor's feet.] 

Nero 

So poison is a trade with thee, eh? This death 
must not be long — ^no pangs, but silent, sure and 
quickly done. 



MYRRHA 91 

LocusTA (looking up) 

O divine one, there's the Julian Law against these 
poisonings, murders and their perils — 
Nero {interrupting and kicking her) 

Reptile! dar'st talk to me of Julian laws? I am 

the law, that understand or thou shalt die to- 

morow morning {smiling maliciously) on the 

old charges. 

LocusTA {cringing and shrinking beneath his gaze and 

the blow) 

O mighty one, thy word is law! Though the 
prince is very strong and healthy and the task, 
therefore, not an easy one, I have a poison that 
will do the work and at the same time avert 
suspicion. 
Nero {with an air of malignant satisfaction) 

Ah, thou art an artist; devise something fresh, 
eh? What shall it be? 
LocusTA 

Let the victim be given a cup of hot wine, that 
he will find too hot; he will ask then for snow 
to cool it; in this snow the poison shall be 
placed. 
Nero 

Artful wench, well said. See to it, see to it, and 
thy record shall be cleared. Go now — stay, re- 
member — no pangs, silent sure. 
[LocusTA makes obeisance and kisses the hem of 
the imperial toga] 

[Exit Locusta] 



92 MYRRHA 

Nero (to himself) 

The stage is set, the actors wait my will, 
Now must the world acclaim my artist-skill. 
[An expression of absolute malice steals over his 
countenance^ 

CURTAIN 



ACT IV 



ACT IV 

The next night. 

Scene : 

The great Banquet Hall in the Palace of the 
Caesars. 

The walls are delicately frescoed with mythologi- 
cal figures, while the columns supporting the hall 
are hung with roses and each pillar is festooned 
with wreaths made of orange and acacia blossoms. 
There are long tables overlaid with silver and 
handsome cloths upon which are bejewelled cups 
of gold and jade and great dishes heaped high with 
the rarest fruits. 

Near the tables are divans and couches covered 
with cushions of rich silks. Agitated by glittering 
cords a rain of petals constantly descends upon 
the tables. Underneath the tables is sprinkled a 
mixture of vervain and maiden-hair. 
Amphorae of wine stand against the walls, and in 
the background a fountain; behind this is seen a 
life-size figure of Aphrodite. 
Over all is a strange and broken reflection of the 
evening light; the eastern touch is given by the 
mist of incense. 

Dreamy oriental music is heard. 
Guests are discovered entering, 

93 



94 MYRRHA 

Senators, counselors, nobles and patricians of 
Rome, foreigners of state from distant realms of 
the Empire are dazzled by the display of splendor. 
Among the throng are seen hosts of Caesar's 
slaves and servants of both sexes. The men ser- 
vants carry hand-lamps ; others are scattering 
spices, small boys are running about with lutes 
and harps, while the slave girls and freedwomen 
are playing cytharas or bearing great bunches of 
flowers wherewith to decorate the feast. 

[Enter Nero and Octavia greeted by a tumult of 
applause; they are followed in train by Agrippina, 
Britannicus, and the other members of the royal 
suite. ] 

[Enter Seneca, Tigellinus, Burrus, Lucan, Vi- 
TELius, Titus Flavius, Aulus Plautius, Pop- 
PAEA, Myrrha, Acte, Pomponia Graecina, 
et al.'\ 

[Nero now, amid deafening applause is seen to 
recline on a couch behind the table, which is in 
the background. His robes are of oriental rich- 
ness. His hair is curled and he holds an emerald 
eye glass. Agrippina, Octavia, Poppaea, Sen- 
eca, Tigellinus, Burrus, and others, also lie 
behind the Imperial table.] 

[Britannicus is discovered seating himself on a 
divan before the lower table in the foreground; 
on his right is Myrrha; to his left Titus.] 



MYRRHA 95 

Britannicus (leaning gently over to Myrrha) 
Ah, greetings, my beloved! What happiness 
To see — 
Myrrha 

Britannicus — 
Britannicus 

What bliss to hear 
Your voice. 
Myrrha {looking about as in fear) 
This chills my soul. 
Britannicus 

Nay, Myrrha dear, 
You have a God, who with His mighty wings 
Will shelter you, else He is not of heaven. 
[Enter musicians dressed as satyrs, who now play 
on lutes and bagpipes. These are followed by a 
group of professional applauders.] 
[Following the applause given the Emperor, the 
banquet proceeds amid the low hum of conversa- 
tion and tinkling of lutes.] 

[Caesar now is seen to rise] 
Chorus of voices 

O hear the songs of Nero, poet-god ! 
Britannicus {to Myrrha) 

Now must we bow to Rome's buffoonery. 
[A hush falls over the hall as the Emperor recites 
one of his own compositions] 
Nero 

Bear witness Attis! thou whose lovely eyes 
Could e'en surprise the mother of the skies ! 
Bear witness dolphin, cleaving rolling tides 



96 MYRRHA 

And gamboling on Nereus' sea-green sides; 

Bear witness likewise, Hannibal, divine, 

Thou who didst scale the high- ridged Apennine. 

[Wild applause] 
You powers hear, in high Olympus* dome 
Who sway the fortunes of imperial Rome 
Give ear, — inspire me with Machlean rage 
That I may so the pangs of love assuage; 
To make the Gallic priests their cymbals beat 
And fair Bacchantes move with tripping f^et. 
And chant "lo Bacche!" to the woods around 
And echo from the hills repeat the sound. 
[Long and continued applause] 
[Nero sits down, assuming a grotesque attitude, 
smiling delightedly at the adulation heaped upon 
him. ] 

BtrRRUS (aside to himself) 

He might be worse employed than shouting 
rhymes ! 
[ViTELius, the dandy, now rises. He is flushed 
with wine; the wreath he wears has slipped to his 
eyebrows and ointment is running down his fore- 
head. ] 

Chorus of voices 

All hail Vitelius ! Vitelius ! 

VlTELIUS 

*Tis said Anacreon wrote in witty phrase: 
" 'Twixt wine and man this difference appears, 
The old man bores you, but the old wine cheers." 
Nero (to Tigellinus and pointing to Vitelius) 
What ails that keg of grease? 



MYRRHA 97 

TiGELLINUS 

Beyond cure, mad. 

VlTELIUS 

Our sac-sac-sacred Nero is a god! 
Bear witness Attis ! thou whose lovely eyes 
Can see no god but Nero in the skies. 
[Holding his cup in the air] 
Libations to our god among the gods! 

Homer, how thy Iliad dwindles here; 
Now Virgil, bite thy nails in jealousy. 

[Applause] 
Britannicus (to Myrrh A who is becoming not only 
ill at ease but terror-stricken as the revelry proceeds) 
The ties of love must never fail to hold. 
Believe me true. Look not that way but turn 
And gaze into my heart. O best of all 

1 love you — see you only, feel you here. 
Myrrha 

Love liveth in the softly dreaming sea, 
Beneath the trees can laugh and sing — not here. 

VlTELIUS 

To ruby-visaged Bacchus ! let us drink ! 

My heart — my blood — to Venus and her boy! 

[Pointing to his blossomed nose] 
A charm there is about the color red, 
Suggestive of much warmth and brilliancy. 
Come, ladies, with your priceless gems and clouds 
Of muslin, droop your peplums — show your 

charms ! 
The statues smile, but you both smile and love. 
Yet loving, wooing — hang it ! better drink ! 



98 MYRRHA 

[Applause] 
[Staggering back toward his couch] 
Yes, I have lived in this unstseady world — 
Seneca (to himself) 

We sing, we drink, we take, but we are ta'en. 

VlTELIUS 

You are a fledgling, Seneca, without 
My wit and art to feel a real thrill 
Of passion: sir, I edify this world — 
Chorus of voices 

A song from Lucan now! sing, Lucan, — sing! 

VlTELIUS 

Make room: yes, let us have another song. 
Seneca (to himself) 

Oh, what a housing have our vices got ! 

Contempt of them keeps me from festering. 
Lucan (rising) 

He fights, plays, revels, loves and whirls and 
stands, 

Doth use mute eloquence and rhythmic hands ; 

Silence is voiceful through each varying part. 

In each fair feature — 'tis the crown of Art. 
[Wild acclamation of ''Euge"] 

VlTELIUS 

Plain critics say — he sings and scribbles well. 
Lucan 

Such is our Caesar; happy, happy Rome 
Where radiant Nero gilds his palace home; 
His gentle looks with tempered splendor shine 
'Round his fair neck his golden tresses twine. 
[Applause] 



MYRRHA 99 

[At the sign from Nero enter a troop of Syrian 
dancing girls naked to the waist, clashing tam- 
bourines, with bells on their wrists and ankles. 
These now whirl in a wild passionate measure. 
They wave their arms, twist their bodies in lasciv- 
ius contortions, roll their eyes with invitation, 
refusal or ecstacy.] 

[Finally flinging their tambourines to the floor, they 
stand rigid, affecting a spasm of delight. The 
girls then approach and retreat from the guests on 
the couches. Men, young and old, seise the 
wanton creatures and bear them — some to alcoves 
behind tapestries, others to their couches.] 
Britannicus {in tones of disgust) 

Bedizened, falsely smiling courtesans. 

[Flowers and petals continue to drop from the 
ceiling; the hum of voices increases to cries of 
delight. ] 

[As the Banquet proceeds all restraint seems to van- 
ish; excitement becomes a fever; unprecedented 
license prevails. Fresh relays of food and wine 
are brought in — drunken kisses and embraces 
become general, draperies are torn or lowered, 
pe plums are cast aside, while both men and women 
offer little excuse for their actions. Goblets and 
dishes are dashed to the floor. Here and there 
slaves are seen assisting or lifting besotted nobles 
who have rolled under the tables either alone or 
in the drunken embraces of women.] 

[The music changes into a disordered and wild out- 
burst of bagpipes, lutes, citharas, cymbals, Egyp- 



100 MYRRHA 

tian sistra, followed by the discordant blare of 
trumpets and clapping of crotolas.] 

[More groups of dancers and courtesans enter who 
mingle with the guests.] 

[One of these wantons partly disrobing is seen to 
throw herself on the breast of Vitelius. The 
dandy smiles, blows some of the powder from her 
hair, kisses her neck and shoulders, then as if 
suddenly bored by her caresses pushes her into the 
arms of the other nobles.] 

[Nero is seen half bent over the table, dividing his 
time between making amorous advances to Pop- 
PAEA and gazing over the scene through a polished 
emerald. ] 

[OcTAviA, though somewhat more hardened, seems 
to be undergoing feelings of utter loneliness and 
disgust. ] 

[Seneca is talking with Agrippina; they look dis- 
dainfully and coldly upon it all.] 

[Tigellinus appears perturbed, impatiently await- 
ing the climax.] 

[Myrrh A, who has been murmuring all the while 
in low whispers to Britannicus, is seen to blush, 
then a look of horror comes over her face. 
Britannicus shields her as best he can from the 
clamour and rioting. ] 

[Large Ethiopians now enter who mimic beasts, 
while other slaves appear, acting the clown and 
buffoon for the benefit of the f casters.] 

[Enter youths and maidens in masquerade. Some 
wear masks of the heads of tigers, crocodiles, and 



MYRRHA loi 

apes; others are clothed in the skins of lions, goats 
and dogs, dragons and sea-dolphins, or in the 
plumage of ostriches and peacocks. These crea- 
tures now dance, representing respectively antics 
of the forest or jungle or sea. On finishing this 
dance of unparalleled licentiousness, the applause 
and enthusiastic cries of the guests are general.] 

[ViTELius, now holding a cup of wine in his hand 

passes closely to where Myrrha and Britannicus 

are reclining; he staggers roughly against the 

corner of their couch.] 

ViTELius {peering at Myrrha through blinking eyes 

and swaying hack and forth) 

My gate of dawn! My garden of delight! 
[Pushing aside several of the nearby revellers] 
Disperse ye fireflies — pluck not at my rose! 
[Staggering over and whispering to Titus] 
Remember this I said on yester night : 
"The flowers were not made for beauty^s sake, 
They bud to yield their honey to the bee." 
This bee now sips ; faith, as I am — ah, ah ! 

[Turning again to Myrrha and touching her bodice] 
Fair ivory hills, — to touch I hesitate. 

[Myrrha pushes him from her] 
I may not love, I will at least enjoy, — 
[Glancing over toward Nero and Octavia] 
Change with each tasting as our Nero there, — 
Wives are deficient in the arts of love. 
Britannicus {sternly to Vitelius, noticing Myrrha's 

fear) 



I02 MYRRHA 

Begone ! She's not the kind who would converse 

With you. 
ViTELius (persistently) 

Sip honey ere the petals close. 

So sweet and fragrant, tempting but demure, 

Becoming pretty parts, too modest, quite! 

Come, marble Aphrodite, just one kiss! 
[Myrrh A repulses him again] 

Still marble? Love's cold statue, passionless! 

You should adorn some golden nook at night 

Where fragrant incense would your soul affect — 
[Turning to Britannicus] 

Love is a starving sort of ailment here. 
Britannicus 

Away, away, you fool! 

VlTELIUS 

Another try. 
For she is too demure. Come, tell me why — 
[Britannicus by another stern look commands 
ViTELius to retire then turns to Myrrha] 
Britannicus 

Who could imagine night of viler madness ? 

[Gating over the festivities] 
And, Reason, where is thy nobility? 
Myrrha 

Dear lord, can we not leave the banquet hall 
And later to the Emperor explain? 
Britannicus (who is gradually becoming affected by 
his surroundings) 

Why are you cold? It is a night for love! 
Your very breath is incense to my soul 



MYRRHA 103 

And wakens me. Come nearer, my dear love. 

[Looking into her eyes} 
The whitest clouds are pillows for your eyes. 
Myrrh A {with slight annoyance) 

If so, my prince, would I could shroud mine eyes, 
Britannicus 

O queen of soft desires ! Dare I embrace 
You on this couch of roses sweet and soft, — 
[Myrrha becomes startled and pushes him from 
her] 

The recognition of my use in life 
Lies in my love for you. 
Myrrha 

Britannicus 
Forget not your respect — 
Britannicus 

Feast after feast 
Each night is spread upon the star-lit sky. 
But there's no festival in all the world 
Served on the million plates of heaven's gold, 
Nor single delicacy I would touch 

[Kissing her passionately] 
Without the nectar from these precious lips. 
[Myrrha tears herself from his embrace] 
My sweet content ! my heart of joy ! 
Myrrha 

For shame, 
For shame — ! 
Britannicus 

O foolish, that I have not known 



104 MYRRHA 

As now I do, the steps to mount Love's throne. 

[With intense passion] 
Who says that you are not my sweetest love? 
Show me a spirit that will answer nay. 

Myrrh A (timidly endeavoring to bring Britannicus 
to his senses) 
True love incorporates the heart with good, 
Then crowns the soul with happiness and trust. 

Britannicus 

You are the fire that burns and glows, a flame 
Your scented hair ; your heart a rose ; your lips 
Two petals sweet, for dewy kissings ripe ; 
Your eyes twin urns in sleep, — to wake at dawn 
From yester's dreams to present soft desires. 
Who says that you are not my sweetest love? 

Myrrha 

Here with what darkness you would clothe that 
love! 

Britannicus 

Not mine those cheeks aglow, your warm-veined 

arms. 
Those soft white knees adoring oft in prayer? 
Those little feet that lightly tread the flowers? 

Myrrha 

O Myrrha, save yourself from this abyss ! 

Britannicus 

Ah, eyes half-closed, you must not look from me, 
Not all the gods shall turn from me a gaze 
Where every droop of lids is amorous. 
Here you are mine, and we were born to love I 
This chamber echoes with the joy of love. 



MYRRHA los 

Where Virtue ruled, now Love must have control. 
[He seizes Myrrh a and draws her passionately to 
him] 

Come, Myrrha, — kisses here and here, more close 
And deeper sown across your eyes and hair, — 

Myrrha 

O Christus ! in the darkness of this hour 

Where is Thy light to guide, Thy way to climb? 

Britannicus 

Ah, hazard's placed you in a happy sphere, — 
This couch of softest silk 'mid leaves of rose, 
Made more to sooth delight than court repose. 
[At the mingled looks of pain, anger and disappoint- 
ment on Myrrha'^ face, Britannicus recovers 
himself almost as suddenly as he had given way 
to his passion. ] 

Beloved do not go — O pardon me ! 
O blame it on my passion, not my love. 
In my true heart I am ashamed — I beg 
For pardon on my knees : forget — forgive ! 

Myrrha 

Ah, but I feared you. 

Britannicus 

You need fear no more; 
Your love is generous — 

[Suddenly heaving a deep sigh] 

Myrrha 

Why do you sigh? 
Why are you saddened now so suddenly? 



io6 MYRRHA 

Britannicus (in low tones, clasping both of 
Myrrha's hands) 

I often think, were 1 to die, dear, 

To sleep, to feel, to pray there in that Realm, 

So far away. 
Some thrill of tender sympathy. 
We had had, or dreamed, or known, or loved. 

We two alone. 
Would startle, then recarry me 
From Exile back to Life again. 
I often think, were I in my grave, dear. 
Beneath the forest deep or vine-clad walls, 

Thine eyes in grief 
Would drop seeds of such sweet sorrow 
That my heart would rise — break into a rose, 

And recognize 
Thy tears of Love upon the petals. 
As the richest jewels from Paradise. 

Myrrha 

But never shall I suffer you to die. 

Britannicus (glancing towards Nero) 

Ah, when the heart is torn, one cannot help 
But show what's hidden there of misery. 
I see the jewel flash and know 'tis there, — 
Though we are here in robes arrayed with life 
Within yon gem I see the flame of death; 
Unhappy victim for ambition L 
Soon I'm incarcerated in a tomb, 
Deprived of love — 

Myrrha 

Nay, nay — 



MYRRHA 107 

Britannicus 

That one thing here 

On earth approaching most divinity. 
Myrrha 

Let us cast off these ornaments, let's leave 

These pomps and profanations to their rage. 
Britannicus (picking up a handful of rose leaves) 

These, ashes of my Empire, branch extinct: 

Though born to Caesar's throne I own it not ; 

The eyes of my dear father's shade must weep 

To see here robbed his fair posterity. 

Yet Myrrha, my beloved, there hath crept 

Into my soul some strange and secret strength 

That lifts me up — I know not what it is. 
Myrrha (tenderly) 

Britannicus, brave opener of mine eyes 

To love, — 
Britannicus 

And yet must see foul death each day. 

My heritage is lost as well as I; 

You have what's left of me — a nothingness. 
Myrrha (in low tones) 

How are you lost ? No, no ! His voice you hear 

Soothing the ache of centuries away 

Into the sweetness of eternal Ufe. 
Britannicus 

Can it be so ? is't true or false ? 
Myrrha 

Most true. 
[Nero now raises his polished emerald, looking 

directly across the banqueting room towards 



io8 MYRRHA 

Britannicus; the other guests anxiously follow 

the eyes of Caesar.] 
Nero (loudly) 

Britannicus, it is my wish that you 

Would sing for us. 

[A hush falls over the Hall] 
Britannicus 

I'm not a balladist 

Like Caesar, so I pray to be excused. 
Nero (impatiently) 

We wait, O poet-kin — give us a song. 

I might learn much from a comedian. 
Britannicus 

You flatter me. 
Nero 

Come then, make ready, sing. 
Britannicus (summoning a harpist to accompany 
him) 

My present state proceeds from fortune's stings; 

My birth I boast of a descent from kings ; 

Hence may you see from what a noble height 

I'm sunk by fortune to this abject plight. 

Of father, country and of friends bereft. 

Not one of all these sumptuous temples left; 

Which, while the fortune of our house did stand. 

With rich-wrought ceilings spoke the artist-hand. 
[A murmur of applause, mingling partially with pity 

and favor] 
[Nero glares angrily at his brother apparently for 

this insinuation against his hereditary rights] 



MYRRHA 109 

Nero {to himself) 

The gods avenge contempt, likewise will I. 
Titus 

A dangerous song you've sung, my noble friend 
And see the look upon your brother's face. 
Britannicus (to Nero) 

My disabilities — 
Nero (controlling his anger) 

You sang — of what? 
Insinuations I'll not tolerate. 

[One of the slaves is now seen to approach Britan- 
nicus and hand him a myrrhine goblet filled with 
wine] 
Britannicus (raising the goblet to his lips) 
This is too hot, when it is cooled, perhaps. 

[The slave drops snow in the cup from a cooler 
nearby, handing it back to the prince] 

[Britannicus now drinks unsuspectingly. Titus 
takes the goblet and is about to drink also when 
Britannicus suddenly falls forward across the 
table. With a cry of horror Titus drops the 
goblet breaking it to pieces on the tiled floor] 

[Myrrh A with one stifled scream throws her arms 
about her lover; then with the assistance of Titus, 
draws him from the table to the couch] 

[OcTAViA is seen rushing to where her brother has 
fallen] 

[Some score of the guests become terror stricken, 
leaping from their divans and running in all di- 
rections. Those, however, more hardened and 
familiar with the mysteries of the court, stand 



no MYRRHA 

rooted in their places with eyes fixed on Nero, 
awaiting, as it were, some sign of reassurance."] 
Britannicus {regaining consciousness as he rests in 
Myrrha's arms) 
My torch is out ! 
Myrrh A {tenderly smoothing his brow) 

Be still, my gracious lord. 
Britannicus 

Ah, you are here ? Fair daylight ! O sweet love ! 
Yet I am doubtful, — I can barely see. 
Myrrh A {as she feels him sinking back again in her 
arms) 

love, look — look on me — my darling, speak ! 
Britannicus {as his companion kisses him passion- 
ately) 

Sweet kisses — fragrant breath! Ah, put your 

cheek 
Against my cheek. Let Nero take the world, — 
Give me your hand — we soon shall meet again. 

1 see your eyes, like stars they light the trees 
Of Heaven. How long to stretch these longing 

arms 
Alone? 
Myrrha 

Take, take my soul in them ! 
Britannicus {dreamily) 

O death 
Seems other than the dreams; farewell, my wife. 
Myrrha 

Your wife in very truth,^he hears me not ! 




THE DEATH OF BRITANNICUS 



MYRRHA III 

that I had the charms to keep the soul 
Within the confines of this feeble case. 

Britannicus {feebly) 

1 hear — O — weakness at a time like this? 
My soHtudes are filled with winged things 
And silences are murm'ring into speech. 

Myrrh A {tenderly) 

Lie still upon my heart — close, lest it break. 
Now I am wholly yours in thought and hope. 
Britannicus {his eyes closing while he feebly and 
half unconsciously moves his hands about Myrrha'^ 
face) 

More soft than sleep and singing in my next 
World's memories. Now pity lends her tears 
To love. Ah, one embrace, O one more kiss 
This last time, and no other ever more. 
Shall I see there? — O you my love! Farewell 
My eyes, — my life, my all — 
[Dies] 
Myrrha 

O silence hard ! 
O he is dead! dead, dead! My Prince, my love! 

[Kneeling for a moment'] 
O give me strength to reconcile the words: 
"No hair of Myrrha's head shall e'er be harmed," 
When here my very heart is cleft in twain. 
[While Myrrha and Octavia are weeping over the 
body of Britannicus, Agrippina sits transfixed; 
then her expression gradually changes to one of 
alarm and consternation; her hands tremble so 



112 MYRRHA 

violently that she spills the contents of a cup she 
had been holding.] 
Seneca (to himself, noticing the countenance of 
Agrippina) 

Ah ! she is innocent of this, at least. 
So nature drops us down. Poor witless wretch! 
How many deaths ahead before mine own? 
Tell me, sweet oracle, be kind — reveal. 

LUCAN 

O what a Httle nothingness is man! 
His best lot is to know the way to die, 
The next best is to be compelled to die. 
[At a sign from Nero, slaves come to hear the body 
of Britannicus to an ante-room.] 

Titus {looking down into the face of his dead friend) 
So beautiful in death the lad appears; 
There lies the last of Rome's most noble house. 
An ancestry of seven centuries 
Is flitting now to unsubstantial dust. 
[Glaring at Nero] 

monstrous deed! O foulest fratricide! 
[Exeunt Octavia, Myrrha, Titus, Seneca and 

others, with the slaves hearing the body] 
[Nero rises and attempts by reassuring smiles and 
gestures to quell the growing panic among the 
guests] 
Nero 

1 bid you stay, my friends, and not desert 

The feast. My brother hath from childhood been 
The subject of such fits. He may return, 



MYRRHA 113 

For wine is sovereign cure for all one's ills, — 

Come dancers all ! refill your cups, come drink ! 
[ The guests hesitate for a moment, hut gradually file 

out of the Hall; even Tigellinus and Burrus are 

seen to slip away.] 
[Nero and Agrippina confront each other alone] 
Agrippina {fiercely) 

This is your work. 
Nero 

Seek not to grieve a work 

Which is your own. 
Agrippina 

How now ! what masque is this ? 
Nero 

I have out-traveled you. We two still rule, 

Though, madam, pardon me if I infringe. 
Agrippina 

I'll show you for a monster, yet I fear — 
Nero 

Suspicious ever is an evil mind; 

Now let the dead be dead. You live and I ; 

But do not tattle too much of your ills. 

That's all. 
Agrippina 

I live here and am mistress, sir. 
Nero 

I never feared the face that first I saw. 

Let me be sure — a little nearer — so — 

The very first I saw, the very face. 
Agrippina 

Dare touch my hand? 



114 MYRRHA 

Nero 

A Caesar's courtesy. 
Agrippina 

Would I could tear out those blood-shotten eyes 

And feed them to the beasts ! 
Nero 

Ungentle queen, 

Heredity bears partners for its crimes, 
Agrippina 

You challenge me with your comparisons? 
Nero 

That fault lies in my birth — an act supreme 

Of yours which Fate most wisely swayed to Rome. 

Behold! so far you've had your will; now, I 

Would be more than a tame interpreter 

Of Rome's great pride and all that she would 
boast 

Of pomp and power unassailable. 

By all the gods! do not my deeds declare 

And re-assert your bloody majesty? 

CURTAIN 



ACT V 



ACT V 
Time — Four years later. Place — Baiae 

Evening. 

Scene i : 

An ante-chamber in the Imperial Villa. Through 
a large door to the right is seen the outer hall 
lined with lofty marble pillars. 
[Enter hall, two Romans meeting each other] 

1ST Roman 

What haste, good fellow, whither now so fast? 
2ND Roman 

I saw't, but turned away mine eyes and ears. 
1ST Roman 

ril hear with faithful ears, whate'er it be. 
2ND Roman 

Mark! Nero's name shall burn the sky of Hell: 

The guilt of greater evils takes the shame 

From lesser. O the wrath of highest gods ! 
[Exit 2nd Roman] 
1ST Roman 

He is too earnest. Faith, I'll follow him. 
[Exit I St Roman] 

115 



ii6 MYRRHA 

[Enter slowly Myrrha. She walks about adjusting 
several minor ornaments in the room; then sits on 
a couch] 

[She pushes back her long dark hair from her tem- 
ples, at the same time choking back a sob] 
Myrrha 

Do I still live? Can I still bear to live? 

Or am I mad? This craft of reason lost 

In grief's unfathomed flood? Alas! Alas! 

I find no harbor nigh. Naught can I see 

But woes that murder joy! In whom confide? 

Is kindness not the natural due of life? 

Dear Christ, dost Thou not wish the world to 

save? 
But tears are vain. Each day brings forth some 

new 
Calamity; more ghastly crimes each night. 
The glory of sagacious minds is fled, — 
Forever lost. Mad fiends of all degrees. 
Without constraint proclaim there is nor God, 
Nor faith, nor love : — all trod into the dust 
By whomsoever bear authority. 
Now only murder sates the Emperor's heart. 
And thinner grows his train of flatterers. 
My father dead, my lover foully slain — 
No hope for me who once had hope to love ! 
The saddest strokes of life have struck me dumb. 
Britannicus, O loss beyond my tears ! — 
Thy precious memory shall never die, 
Though grief may die slain by excessive grief; 
Then I shall go, attired in bridal robes, 



MYRRH A 117 

And Death shall lead me gently by the hand, 

To meet my lover in eternity. 

[Pausing and drying her tears] 

Within this dreadful Court I had one friend, 

Octavia, and she an exile weeps 

Her dreary days at Pandataria, 

A Christian comforted in banishment 

By Christus' teachings of Eternal Life. 

My Christian brethren, though their eyes weep out 

From suffering, keep joyous hearts that beat 

With strength of Faith and its encouragements. 
[Drawing a parchment from her bosom and reading 

aloud] 

This message here from Paulus gives me strength. 

''And who is he that will harm you, if ye be zeal- 
ous of that which is good? But if ye suffer 
for the sake of righteousness, blessed are ye: 
and fear not their fear, neither be troubled; 
but sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord. 

"For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye 
suffer for well-doing rather than for evil-doing ; 
because Christ also suffered for sins once, the 
righteous for the unrighteous, that He might 
bring us to God." 

[Enter Titus excitedly] 
Titus {recognizing Myrrha) 

The lady Myrrha ! Ah, do I intrude ? 

Is Nero here? Gods, what a scene to mar 

The lovely night! 
Myrrha {anxiously) 

Ah where? what news, my lord? 



ii8 MYRRHA 

Titus 

Tonight who may look up without a fear? 
Myrrha 

Misfortunes conquer often every fear. 
Titus (as if seized with a sudden suggestion) 

If you will unto Agrippina haste — 
[Myrrha looks startled] 

Indeed I know it is a sacrifice ; 

She's in distress and may have need of you. 
Myrrha 

The most exalted are bow'd down by woe; 

O sobs and miseries are all I hear. 

I'll go to her; I am decided, sir. 
[Exit Myrrha] 
Titus (to himself, admiring Myrrha as she retires 
through the hall) 

She is the noblest woman in the Court; 

No wanton kiss, no false, no flatt'ring smile, 

Yet she has every winning charm. Sweet girl, 

This Christ — there must be good in Him withal. 

'Tis rare example here, I wish it well. 

List and construe my words, Posterity! 

Afar I see Jerusalem in flames 

While I o'erthrow her proudest monuments 

In penalty of what was merited. 

And exiled be the Jew throughout the world 

And Christus well avenged by Roman arms. 
[Loud voices heard approaching] 
[Enter Nero, Seneca, Tigellinus, Burrus and 

Anicetus] 



MYRRHA 119 

[Titus slips unnoticed by them and stands listening 
just outside the door] 
Nero (pacing wildly about the room) 

O cursed crones, O maudlin murderers ! 

This is an hour of vile malignity. 

My mother drowned, a ship unnailed to sink 

Midway to yonder angry, rocky coast. 

And who conceived this deed? Not I, no, no! 

You Anicetus, are responsible. 

My mother dead ! her mem'ry will not die ! 

The womb that bore me, in the waters, cold, — 

Those eyes that looked upon me first, now closed 

With slimy ooze ; while writhing eels devour 

The breasts that gave me love and nourishment. 

TiGELLINUS 

My lord — 
Nero 

Would you console me. Tiger-soul? 
A fitting heart for sympathy have you ! 
That which I see, I see — my mother's face! 
If evil come of this outrageous deed — 

TiGELLINUS 

Be calm, my master, you are now secure. 
Nero 

She stands, she sighs and sways in whispers vast — 
O this ! her hand, her hand, it touches me ! 

TiGELLINUS 

Behind the throne which she would soon have 
seized. 



I20 MYRRHA 

Nero 

The sharks are making towards me, side long 
shapes 

And would bite guilt out of my secret soul. 

See, see, my mother's in a body yet. 

O you now being dead, so loved your son! 

Why hinder me, you brutes, rash fools ! stand 
back! 
Anicetus 

We have done simply what you bade us do. 
Seneca 

Its consummation then you should endure. 
Nero 

I'll not believe it. Now she calls my name. 

It was the first voice on this earth I heard. 

Farewell, my mother — think me not so base — 
Titus (rushing back into the room) 

But Agrippina lives ! 

BURRUS 

What do you mean? 
Titus 

Upon the moonht sea, I witnessed it 

A-sailing there with old Caractacus. 
Nero (wildly addressing Tigellinus and Anicetus) 

O, O, O, O! I'm not a matricide. 

Destroy that mandate, tear that mandate up! 
Tigellinus (looking at Titus) 

Now we must take him in our confidence. 

Speak, if your words are true. 
Titus 

Sir, Prefect, peace! 



MYRRHA 121 

For justice is performed in spite of you. 
At bloody deeds you always stand unmoved, 
Your present disappointment bares your soul. 
Nero 

I am not doomed — no, now I am not doomed. 
I dreamed she lived — I had forgotten that. 

[To Titus] 
What if you lie? What then — if this were false? 

TiGELLINUS 

Give us your proofs. 
Titus 

List first to what I saw. 
A shrill despairing cry broke through the night, 
Then all grew still beneath a dimness kissed 
By splendid stars of pearl and emerald. 
With winged sails we bounded o'er the sea 
To where that voice had risen in the gloom. 
Our smooth shaped boat tossed up a sparkling 

spray, 
The waves in hollow pathways following; 
But when we there arrived it was too late. 
The wounded vessel sank beneath the waves. 
Two pressing tides met just above her decks, — 
Then calmer than before, the waters ebbed. 
Weaving those thin and unembodied shapes 
Which Fancy sends with silver from the moon. 
Half in a waking dream we scanned the deep; 
For lack of light and sound impatient grew, 
Unsatisfied, a cold chill in our limbs. 
Then lo ! two jewelled arms 'mid ripples rose 
As if from out the foam of fairyland. 



122 MYRRHA 

More closely drawn, behold a woman swam, 
In frenzy sought to reach the distant strand. 
More swift we sailed across the silent sea, — 
We followed straight the course of those gemmed 

arms, — 
How noble seemed that shadow plunging on! 
A presence struggling in the lights and darks 
And dim environments of varied hue. 
Still plunging on — we but a length away — 
But ere we reached the trailing of her hair 
She rose and stood erect upon the shore. 
She quickly turned in frightened steps from us 
Scarce knowing her deliverance had come. 
Against the cliff in weariness she leaned 
An outline delicate, benumbed with cold. 
The crescent moon rays fell upon her face 
And dripping hair thick to the girdle-tie. 
A loveliness in marble ; yet withal, 
Her blue eyes bore much sadness in their gaze. 
And then we recognized, we named her name: — 
Now in her villa safe, Augusta rests. 

BURRUS 

Then peace, your mother lives. 

TiGELLINUS 

Do not rejoice. 
Nero 

And pray why not? The seas have stood aloof 
To take a prize so marvelous as she. 

TiGELLINUS 

Do you not know she will avenge this act. 
Proclaim it to the comers of the realm? 



MYRRHA 123 

Nero 

You tell me that? 

TiGELLINUS 

For I would have you choose — 
Nero 

I'll sue to her for life — I am her son. 

TiGELLINUS 

Will you forget her threats so quickly, Sire? 
Titus 

A mother sees her child's most inmost soul. 

TiGELLINUS 

Ambition soars above her motherhood, 
By slow degrees she'll gain the arms of all 
Then gild her savage nature with revenge. 
Titus 

No ; when ambition grows from mother-love 
Forever it will stand in loyalty. 

TiGELLINUS 

Will you be hoodwinked by this fiery youth 
Or trust your safety to your ministers? 
Titus 

Your mother — 

TiGELLINUS 

Shall I put him out the door? 
Titus 

I would not Prefect, play a game with you 
For fear you'd cozen me with trickery. 

[To Nero] 
No matter how the elements of man 
Are clothed with power, the authentic rules 
Of Nature are the same, hot gifts and gold 



124 MYRRHA 

The hungry men of Rome will flatter you; 

Through fear these few will honor you, profess 

Their love to sate their own ambitious ends; 

But as your wit is noble,- you well know 

Your mother only loves you for yourself. 

If that love is ambitious, it is well: 

She seeks not what she seeks for her own self 

But only questing glory for her son. 

Such is the horoscope of mother's love 

Mixed in the waywardness of sacrifice. 

TiGELLINUS 

If you see visions, pass them to the air. 

Nero (turning to Seneca) 

Let me be rid of this perplexity. 
Come, Seneca, please — what may you suggest? 
[There is a long and intolerable silence between the 
men. Seneca turns his troubled eyes to Burrus. 
The latter seems to understand the look of inquiry 
and what is going on in the philosopher's mind, 
but turns bluntly away. From Seneca's expres- 
sion there appears to be a mixture, first of scruple, 
then of fear, that by making the concession now, 
Agrippina might become dangerous afterwards.] 

Seneca (to Nero in tones of sullen brevity) 
You first are Emperor and then, her son ; 
Let Anicetus finish what's begun. 

Burrus 

He knocked at virtue's gate, but entered not! 

Titus {glaring at Seneca) 

O thou philosopher, thou stoic false! 
Declaimer of so many soaring truths, 



MYRRHA 125 

To what hast thou now fallen? Thou, of all 
Men whom I honored, far above the vile 
And vulgar standard of this age, to stain 
Thy hands in this most heinous matricide. 
Thy words have now forever blotted out 
The good in thy philosophy. Thou fool ! 
[Enter messenger] 
Messenger (to Nero) 

Augusta prays that Caesar come to her. 

Curtain 



SCENE II 

The same night. Place — Baiae 

Scene 2 : 

An apartment in the villa of Agrippina on the 
shore of the Lucrine Lake. A large doorway on 
the right at hack commands a view of a graduating 
terrace full of shrubbery, roses, pomegranates and 
an abundance of flowers, while statuary and 
plashing fountains cast shadows of the moon 
across the garden. In the distance lies the Lake. 
To the left in the room and set forward is a large 
divan enclosed on three sides and hung with hand- 
some tapestries. 



126 MYRRHA 

Nearby there are a lamp and the accessories of a 
Roman lady's toilet. 

As the curtain rises Agrippina is seen clad in 
white, reclining at full length on the couch. She 
appears intensely nervous and her maid is endeav- 
oring to soothe her and make her rest easily. 

Agrippina (half rising) 

Enanthe, has the messenger returned? 
The night wanes, while I long to see my son. 
Enanthe 

Not yet, Augusta. 
Agrippina 

He should render thanks 
To Jove that I am from that shipwreck safe. 
Enanthe 

Augusta, try to sleep. 
Agrippina 

No, no, not now. 
[Sadly] 
You have not yet lived long enough to know 
The ardent nature of a mother's love. 
A potent love — ^yet, such a helpless love ! 
When children suffer, mothers suffer more. 
[Rising and sitting on the edge of the couch] 
Forget I cannot. What could cause that wreck? 
The sea was calm — 
Enanthe 

Yea, lady Empress, calm. 
Agrippina 

If I remember, in the outer dark 



MYRRHA 127 

A ripple hardly on the silvery waves 

And regular their murmurs on the shore. 
Enanthe 

Most strange, Augusta, yet the sea has moods, — 
Agrippina 

Has not the night a more than common calm? 

The very elements seem not in league — 

A dimness and no more — a placid sea. 
Enanthe 

For this, he will be thankful, — you are safe. 
Agrippina (nervously) 

Will he be kind? O when will he be here? 

See mother-love lives like a beggar's joy; 

On lesser lives — it waits without reward. 

My wrongs ! I could make all the senate weep 

At my offended dignity. O child 

Have I o'er-stepped the bounds of loving? Child, 

Am I not mother of a Caesar still? 

My joys, my only joys are centered there. 

Ambition with late sorrow for its sins, 

Hunts me too hard. He calls me "mother", still. 
[Smiling] 

His eyes were filled with tears the other night. 

As if some anguish held his heart in pain 

When he so urged me go to Antium : 

I answered I was not in health to go ; — 
[Abruptly] 

Enanthe, has the messenger returned? 
Enanthe 

From yonder terrace I will watch his way. 
[Exit Enanthe] 



128 MYRRHA 

Agrippina (to herself) 

I wonder if it was an accident. 

The galleys lay around and idly rolled 

Upon the waves where I was fain to die. 

Most sure, the wrong was not in Neptune's will: 

His pity 'twas that saved me from the wave. 

What's yet unplayed by Nero's wickedness ? 

Which of us two sinned most? Ah, poignant 

thought ! 
By former evils, easily we err ; 
If so, then fits this murderous policy. 
To die by Nero — my Imperial son, — 
To die by my own son — no, Nero, no ! 
It was the sea, the smooth sea treacherous. 
Yet be there fickle winds in crime, that care 
Naught for the strongest bonds. No cause, no 

cause,^ — 
What mad events find fav'ring periods 
In this apparent seemliness of life! 

[Starting up] 
Why now come back the augur's words of bane: 
"Thy son shall reign but kill his mother." ah! 
Not he I've dewed with tears in his small crib 
And nursed and tended in his baby ills ! 
A lying fiend was that astrologer! 
Besides, I will not die! But is this I? 
I feel so lonely. Mem'ry will not fail. 
But with Ambition's eyes, in darkest night 
Sees like the owl. Above, the Furies' locks 
Drip fire into the niches of the past. 
Give answer. Honor, Power, your summons set 



MYRRHA 129 

Against my conscience. O remorseful mind 
By death alone art thou out-paramoured ! 
Time is cast down. The sun turns upward, so ! 

[Pause] 
Clear up thy sorrows, conscience, so increased 
By this outrageous Fate ; aye ! Fate's the word ! — 
Ere fraud and vice were fashions, Fate was here 
And trampled shouting, on life's sacraments, 
In scorn and hate of all their weaknesses. 
I am Fate's paramour — a ruined life 
Near strangled by a son Fate bade me bear, — 
Fate slew my husband that this child might reign : 
And my hand made to slay him, pitiless ! 
'Tis done, 'tis done. Foul deed, and foul Remorse ! 
A fault confessed is barely fault at all. 
One cannot change what was decreed and writ 
Far back in star-dust. That which passeth must 
Have come to pass. See now, I shrink no more. 
Why halt or waver at Fate's hissing snakes? 
Look at these hands ! blood-guilty, I confess. 
Yet, if I'm guilty, I'm betrayed by Fate. 
But O not death, that was not in my Fate. 

[Pause] 
Death, is it thou whom bravest souls revere 
With fearsome awe? Art thou that storm on 

Time's 
Foam-fretted shore that launches human souls 
On Charon's bank? Art thou that tempest wild 
O'erturning Life ; that blows forthwith a wind 
In thunder crash to shake Creations's frame 
To its primeval atoms? Aye, to die — 



130 MYRRHA 

To cease to be ; the wilting, falling off 

Of finest wits: — to die — the fear to be 

What we were ne'er before ; a counting house 

Which keeps the keys itself; where all the past 

Is lost, yet being past was lost before 

We breathed? Birth is the countercheck for 

Death— 
The folly of it ! how Death's boldness grows : 
Our fearing of it troubles all the rests 
Of life in these our fleshly prisons. O — 
[Uttering a sob Agrippina throws herself on the 
couch. A great gust of wind blows out several 
of the candles. Suddenly at the foot of the divan 
appears a veiled figure. ] 
Who comes here? What is this illusion? 
What do I see? is this a dream outdreamt? 
What horrid journey takest thou, my soul? 

Ghost 

Unmerciful Augusta, basely false ! 

Agrippina 

My husband's voice ! Does Claudius still live ? 

Ghost 

Who die are drenched in Hell — 

Agrippina {striking her head with her clenched fist) 

Once noble mind ! 
Is this thy record with a backward look? 
Is my poor spirit torn with whips and snakes ? 
Or are its thoughts mis-dreaming into shapes 
That now give birth to yonder flitting ghost? 



MYRRHA 131 

Ghost 

To mix with devils who torment the soul 
While foul Eternity doth split on Time — 

Agrippina 

To stop infection — O may I awake! 

Ghost 

Untimely came my hurt — 

Agrippina 

Away, away, 
You spiteful villain, hence, and quit my sight ! 
The dead are lying as the living lie. 
Does no one hear me ? 

Ghost 

No one hear thee? Yes, 
Dead Claudius hears. 

Agrippina 

Again! begone, begone! 
This very night upon the calmest sea, 
I nearly paid for my offense to you : 
So now you stand there like some lighthouse tall 
To shine on billows of insanity. 

Ghost 

'Tis frightful, sleeping in a serpent's bed. 
With blood we bathe ourselves steeped in hot pits 
Of clay. Be ready, for thou soon shalt see 
Thy robes in tatters torn from writhing limbs, 
Where fire shall be thy pillows laid in slime. 

Agrippina 

Would you reverse the inner face of life 

By some relentless justice? Ghost, there's none 

In Hell that can make me regret what deeds 



132 MYRRHA 

I have committed, or can prove to me 
My deeds were evil. So, some shadow now 
Is holding festival in flesh and blood. 
Does life snuff out then shackled death gush in 
And jealous grow in hell at them that live? 
No nearer to me ! go, I'm going mad ! 
Ghost 

Life's but a trifle here — 
Agrippina 

Go, go, go, go! 
[With a shriek she picks up the lamp and hurls it 
in the corner toward the phantom, then falls to 
the floor, her hair becoming dishevelled as she 
leans limply against the side of the couch'] 
{The figure of a woman is seen suddenly coming 
through the garden. She pauses at the entrance 
and knocks gently on the panel] 
[Enter Myrrha] 
[The girl looks about the room startled; seeing 
Agrippina she runs quickly across the room, 
gazing down upon her compassionately] 
Myrrha 

The struggle, anguish of the mind unblest. 
[Touching Agrippina gently on the shoulder] 
With Faith ! dear Agrippina, — 
[Agrippina moves and looks up with dazed eyes] 
Agrippina 

Are you flesh 
And blood ? O child, would you upbraid me too ? 
Myrrha 

I'm Myrrha, Lady, like you \om and sad. 



MYRRHA 133 

Agrippina 

Sweet voice, dear Myrrha; yes, I know you now. 

But why, why have you come to me? I am 

A wicked woman, sorrowful, bereaved. 
Myrrha 

Therefore, I came in this extremity; 

Life's riches are not of sufficient worth; 

All earthly things shall pass — 
Agrippina 

How good you are. 
Myrrha 

Nay, there's the Triumph ! Comfort Christ doth 
give 

In all our woes, none ever yet of Him 

Asked sympathy in vain. 
Agrippina 

What do you mean? 

Are you a Christian? of a sect despised, — 

A foolish superstition^ — ^say not so ! 
Myrrha 

In serving Christ, then best I serve the world : 

All that we own, His gifts of love — 
Agrippina 

Ah, dear? 
Myrrha 

Who strings the nerves, who reds the blood? 
Who lights 

The eyes and works the brain? 
Agrippina 

We end in clay 



134 MYRRH A 

Then conjure up new vice from ashes dead. 

Breed like the rats and fiUhy toads of night. 
Myrrha 

He promises a Ufe that never ends : — 
Agrippina (sarcastically) 

I keep then my artistic conscience; 

Reset the wrong and silly balances 

Of soul in some good devils' shadowland? 

By Hades! I cannot imagine it. 

'Tis madness. 
Myrrha 

Nay, not so. 
Agrippina 

Deceitful words — 

Why do I stand debating, wasting breath? 

Death is the surest of our attributes, 

No wild uncertainty in holding that! 

And if 'twere not? Long, long have these poor 
eyes 

Been dimmed by disappointments ; so, my child. 

When they are closed, let no more tears be shed 

By waking in some vague Eternity. 

Grief's in ourselves 'tis we ourselves who grieve; 

Set free by death, secure then from all grief. 

Being rid of sorrow, I'll yield happiness 

For painless dust beneath the passer's foot. 

Extinction be my bliss! Gome, when thou wilt! 

Gome, whether good or ill, thou'lt serve me well. 

Have I not paid the price of earthly joys? 

With that receipt, would you have me pay more 



MYRRHA 135 

And be the sport of spirits after life? 

[Pause] 
I know you Myrrha, to be virtuous; 
Christ's teachings their attractions have, I grant, 
For you and others, but for my poor self 
I much prefer to die than wing the air 
To unknown climes of more calamity. 

Myrrha 

"Help Thou her unbelief/' 

Agrippina 

If it be so. 
What comfort in this great decay of life 
May come, I'll chance what I have merited. 
[Enanthe rushes suddenly into the room] 

Enanthe 

The guards! A file is coming through the gate. 

Agrippina 

At last 'tis Nero, and he comes to me. 

Enanthe 

Behold, a storm is sweeping o'er the lake ! 
[Agrippina hastily adjusts her dress and hair, while 
Myrrha and Enanthe run about the room put- 
ting things in order] 
[Enter Anicetus. He salutes Agrippina] 

Anicetus 

The Emperor inquires about thy health? 

Agrippina {looking towards the entrance expectantly) 
Is he not here? Why do you come instead? 

[Becoming angry] 
You are no friend to come as messenger; 
'Tis not long since I made you public jest. 



136 MYRRHA 

[Anicetus places his hand threateningly upon his 
scabbard] 

Ah, why your hand upon a sword — and why 
This file of soldiers? Answer me, at once! 
Anicetus (roughly) 

Use not harsh tones to question now. I'm not 
In humour for more ridicule. 
Agrippina (white with rage) 

So, so, 
O fall some vengeance down ! Ditch-dog ! do you 
Not know to whom you speak.'* Come you — 
Anicetus (to his men) 

Put up 
Your swords lest fair Augusta swoon. 
Agrippina 

For this 
You'll taste of Caesar's wrath — now go. 
[At a sign from Anicetus to his men, Myrrha and 
Enanthe are suddenly seized and carried roughly 
from the room. Simultaneously a gust of wind 
from the pending storm blows in putting out all 
the lights save one feeble taper burning near the 
divan.] 
Anicetus 

His Grace 
Is meditating higher things than thy 
White tresses, Lady Agrippina. 
Agrippina 

Stand 
Away from me; and take your guards away. 




"Ah, why your hand upon a sword — and why 
This file of soldiers? Answer me, at once!" 

Act V. Scene 2. 



MYRRHA 137 

Anicetus 

Do not deceive thy thoughts, we bring no love : 
We're not excused, in that we take too long 
To finish that which brought on so much wrong. 
Why is thy son not here, dost thou know that? 

[Holding his closed fist in her face] 
Behold thy Nero's signet ring, — for thee! 

Agrippina 

Me, me, his mother? True astrologer! 
Prepare some incense for offended Heaven ! 
What was the cause? my son, my darling boy, 
Have you so terrible an end sought out? 
Is this the thanks you give your mother, son? 

[Beating her breasts] 
So kill, kill, kill, — no, no, no, no, not there I 
[The taper suddenly blows out leaving the stage in 
darkness. A flash of lightening is followed by a 
peal of thunder] 

Strike here, here, here, my womb that monster 
bore ! 
[For a few moments the thunder and lightning 
continue. Murmurs of the departing soldiers are 
heard in the distance followed by a far off trumpet 
call. Suddenly Myrrha is discovered standing in 
the entrance holding in her hand a lamp. She 
looks about and listens uneasily, then moves rap- 
idly into the room, halts in a state of fear, then 
recovering her self-possession looks downward 
towards the body of Agrippina which is lying out- 
stretched on the floor.] 



138 MYRRHA 

Myrrh A (flashing up the lamp) 

O unreplenished lamp give me more light! 

The walls spin 'round, the air is flecked with 

blood! 
That I imagined — ^no, it cannot be! 

[Kneeling] 
O horrible! O helpless, mangled corpse! 
O cruel, cruel ! see the veins still warm 
Nor chilled by death. Upon her countenance 
That proud look marks her as an empress still, 
To rule some self -enshrined eternity 
Above ingratitude's most brutal stroke. 
[Enter Paulus and two Christians, cautiously look- 
ing about them and towards the entrance. They 
pause, when they see Myrrha, and speak in whis- 
pers for a moment. Paulus leaves the group 
and addresses Myrrha.] 

Paulus 

Peace be with thee, my daughter, this sad hour ; 
Lift up thy heart to heav'n whence cometh help. 

Myrrha (languidly looking up, then eagerly kneeling 
at his feet) 

O bless me Father, for my heart is torn 
And I am weak before this blast of death ! 

Paulus 

Still lives the MASTER who can help and save; 
Yet, tears will give relief ; — let grief have sway 
But not the grief of them that have not hope. 
A little while still mourn thy mistress dead, 
Then, let us lead thee to some christian home. 
[He blesses her and retires to his companions. 



MYRRHA 139 

Myrrha rising, turns to the corpse and speaks, 
kneeling] 

Myrrha 

Poor mother ! loving more than loved by son 
Whose baleful shadow darkens Rome's fair dawn : 
Stripped of thy mortal strength where now the 

soul 
That mocked at all beyond the grave- worms' wit? 
O Power! where is your sovereign process now, 
Whose strength would bend the heav'n's diameter ? 
Ambition's brightest splendor laid in dust! 

[Tenderly] 
And yet — in Agrippina much of good 
There was between the alternating shafts 
Of primal wickedness; her Empire most 
Rose from the granite base of mother-love; 
In that were mixed such strange disquietudes, 
Ambition cruel, terrible and stern: 
Withal she was a mother, faithful, true; 
Yes, virtue's sacred air an echo owned 
In Agrippina's heart a note of peace 
Amid the baser discords of the Court. 
Rest here the blame of her unprosperous deeds 
Beneath the mantle of maternal love: 
[Myrrha spreads a veil over the face of the corpse, 
then rises; Paulus approaches and takes her left 
hand, gently] 

Paulus 

Come child: (Myrrha stands, still looking at the 

body) the hour is late, let grief have end. 
Our enemies and hers may find us else; 



I40 MYRRHA 

We must not rashly tempt their pagan rage. 
Come, Myrrha, daughter! 
Myrrh A (lifting her right hand in supplication toward 
heaven, over the corpse) 

Yes, I leave her here, 
And unto Christ's dear mercy trust her soul. 
Let Him of her hfe's record scan the scroll. 

CURTAIN 



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